Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments such as homes, warehouses, and museums; often found in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers of organic materials including wool, silk, feathers, fur, hair, dead insects, and dried animal products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light. They undergo several molts before pupating. Note the distinctive 'hairs' or bristles (setae) covering the body.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household textiles and stored goods. Their bristles can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers by breaking down animal remains.

Identified on: 4/8/2026