Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments such as homes, warehouses, and museums, often found under furniture, along baseboards, and in stored natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on organic materials, including wool, silk, feathers, hair, dead insects, pet fur, and dried animal products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and frequent dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo a complete metamorphosis with the larval stage being the primary damaging stage before pupating into adult beetles.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest capable of damaging carpets, clothing, and upholstery. While they do not bite humans, their stiff hairs (setae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 4/17/2026