Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in carpets, closets, under furniture, pantries, and dark, undisturbed areas; found outdoors in bird nests and wasp hives.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur), dead insects, pet hair, feathers, lint, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

They prefer dark, secluded areas and move slowly. This stage (larval) is the destructive phase, lasting several months to over a year before pupating into small beetles.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstery; their bristly hairs (hastisetae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they help decompose dead animal matter.

Identified on: 3/2/2026