Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, pantries, under furniture, along baseboards, and in attics. They feed on natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, leather, feathers, fur), dried animal products, stored dry goods (cereals, pasta, pet food), museum specimens, dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically slow-moving and avoid light. They undergo several molts before pupating. The adult beetles are attracted to light and are often found near windows. The entire life cycle can take several months to a year depending on conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to natural fiber textiles, carpets, clothing, furs, and stored food items, leading to economic loss. They are not known to bite or transmit diseases. As adults, they can be pollinators, but indoors their larval stage is considered a pest.

Identified on: 11/27/2025