Carpet Beetle larvae (or similar dermestid beetle larvae)

Natural Habitat

Indoors: carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, stored food products, taxidermy. Outdoors: nests of birds and rodents, insect nests, decaying animal matter.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried animal products, dried plant materials, stored food products (grains, cereals).

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and may roll into a ball when disturbed. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light, or outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions (dermatitis, respiratory issues) to larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition by consuming dried animal remains.

Identified on: 10/7/2025