Carpet beetle larva (likely varied carpet beetle or furniture carpet beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with undisturbed natural fibers like carpets, rugs, woolens, furs, taxidermy, stored food products, and insect collections. Outdoor habitats include bird nests and bee nests.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, feathers, fur, skin), dried animal products, stored grains/foodstuffs, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed locations. They are known for their bristly, segmented bodies. They feed on a wide range of organic materials. Adult beetles are attracted to light and often feed on flower pollen outdoors.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant pests of stored products and natural fiber textiles, causing damage to clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the bristles shed by the larvae. Benefits: Contribute to decomposition processes in natural environments.

Identified on: 9/15/2025