Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas like closets, attics, under furniture, and in carpets. They feed on natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich materials such as wool, silk, feathers, fur, animal bristles, dried animal products, dead insects, and occasionally synthetic fibers soiled with natural materials.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light. They undergo several instars and shed their skins, which can be found where they feed. Adults are typically found near windows and flowers, feeding on pollen and nectar, and are good flyers. Larval stage is the damaging stage, as they feed on natural fibers. They do not spin webs.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant nuisance pests, causing damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and stored food products of animal origin. They do not bite or transmit diseases. Benefits: In nature, they act as scavengers, breaking down organic materials.

Identified on: 10/7/2025