Carpet Beetle Larva

Nests of birds or rodents outside; inside homes, they are found in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts.

Natural fibers and animal products including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, leather, and dried food products.

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo several molts, leaving behind thin, translucent brown skins. They can survive for long periods without food.

They are serious household pests that can damage clothing and carpets. While they do not bite, some people develop an allergic reaction (dermatitis) to the shed hairs of the larvae.