Carpet Beetle (larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in undisturbed areas like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, and sometimes in food pantries. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal carcasses, and dried plant material.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on a wide variety of animal and plant products, including natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried pet food, dead insects, animal carcasses, stored grains, and museum specimens. They do not feed on synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are typically slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times as they grow, with cast skins often being a sign of their presence. Adult beetles are often attracted to light and may be seen near windows, but larvae cause the damage. The life cycle can take several months to a year depending on conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles, clothing, carpets, and stored food products. They can also exacerbate allergies in some individuals due to their shed skins and hairs. There are no direct benefits to humans, as they are primarily considered pests in indoor environments. In natural ecosystems, some species of carpet beetles play a role as scavengers.

Identified on: 10/7/2025