Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, in undisturbed areas like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, and around baseboards where lint, pet hair, or food crumbs accumulate. They can also be found in museums or stored foods.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich materials (wool, silk, leather, feathers, fur, pet hair, animal hides), dried animal products, stored grains and food items, dead insects, and lint.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, consuming organic materials. They are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins. Adults are typically outdoor insects that feed on pollen and nectar but can enter homes to lay eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and stored food products, leading to economic loss. Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to the larval hairs or shed skins. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down dead organic matter.

Identified on: 9/16/2025