Carpet Beetle (larva)

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas with natural fibers like wool carpets, upholstered furniture, animal products (e.g., leather, furs, pet food), and sometimes stored pantry items.

The larvae feed on a wide variety of animal and plant products, particularly keratin and chitin found in natural fibers (wool, silk, feathers), dried animal remains, pet food, and sometimes dried plant materials.

Carpet beetle larvae are typically secretive, preferring dark, undisturbed locations. They are slow-moving and often curl up when disturbed. They go through several larval instars, shedding their skin multiple times, which can also be a sign of their presence. The larval stage is the destructive stage. Adult carpet beetles are often found outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar, but can fly indoors to lay eggs.

Potential risks include damage to textiles (carpets, clothing, upholstery), museum specimens, furs, and stored food products. They do not bite humans but can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals due to their bristly hairs. They are generally considered pests due to their destructive feeding habits indoors. In nature, they play a role as scavengers.