Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in carpets, closets, drawers, and near natural fibers like wool, silk, and fur. Also found outdoors in bird nests or bee hives.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural animal fibers (wool, fur, feather, silk), dried plant products, dead insects, pet dander, and occasionally stored food products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas where they can feed unnoticed. They move slowly and are often found wandering on walls or floors when looking for new food sources or pupation sites. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pest; the larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and museum specimens. Some people experience allergic dermatitis ('carpet beetle rash') from contact with the larval hairs. No direct bite or sting risk.

Identified on: 2/23/2026