Carpet Beetle Larva (likely varied carpet beetle or black carpet beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas like under furniture, rugs, carpets, in closets, ventilation ducts. They feed on natural fibers, pet hair, dried food products, and insect remains.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae are scavengers, feeding on a wide variety of animal and plant products, including natural fibers (wool, silk, leather, fur), dead insects, pet hair, lint, dried meats, and cereals. They do not feed on synthetic fibers.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are often slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times as they grow, shedding their skin, which can sometimes be mistaken for the insects themselves. Adults are attracted to light and are typically found outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar, but can fly indoors to lay eggs.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens made of natural fibers. They do not bite or sting humans, but their bristles can sometimes cause skin irritation (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. They can be considered a nuisance pest in homes. There are no significant benefits to humans from their presence indoors, although outdoors, some species may play a minor role in decomposition.

Identified on: 10/27/2025