Carpet Beetle Larva

Found indoors in carpets, closets, drawers, and under furniture. In nature, they live in bird nests and animal dens.

Larvae feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried plant products, pet hair, and dead insects. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They move slowly and may curl up when disturbed. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and museum specimens. They can cause skin irritation ('carpet beetle dermatitis') in some people due to their bristly hairs. Benefits: In nature, they help decompose dead organic matter.