Varied Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; typically resides in carpets, upholstery, and behind baseboards.

Feeds on animal-based natural fibers including wool, silk, feathers, fur, and dead insects; also scavenges on dry pet food and crumbs.

Larvae are photophobic (hide from light) and spend several months to a year in this stage, molting several times. They are the stage responsible for structural damage to fabrics.

Risks include permanent damage to clothing and textiles. Some people experience allergic reactions, like localized dermatitis, from contact with the larval hairs. They provide no significant benefits to humans.