Carpet Beetle Larva (most likely Black Carpet Beetle or Varied Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, found in homes, museums, warehouses, and other buildings. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, in closets, behind baseboards, and in stored items. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal carcasses, and dried plant material.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather), dried animal products (dead insects, pet food), dried plant materials, and fabrics (carpets, clothing, upholstery). They do not feed on synthetic fibers but can damage them as they search for food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are active feeders and are responsible for most of the damage. They are negatively phototactic (avoid light) and tend to hide in cracks, crevices, and under furnishings. They undergo several molts, and their shed skins (exuviae) may be visible. Adults are typically attracted to light and are often found near windows; they feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to textiles, upholstered furniture, carpets, clothing, and stored food items, leading to economic losses. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits include their role as decomposers in natural environments, helping to break down organic matter.

Identified on: 9/9/2025