Black Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, in dark, undisturbed locations such as closets, drawers, along baseboards, under furniture, and in stored food pantries. They are often found in materials of animal origin.

Diet & Feeding

Scavenger that feeds on natural fibers and animal products including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, leather, dried meat, dead insects, and stored products like cereals and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

The larval stage is the destructive phase. Larvae are slow-moving, avoid light, and often crawl along the edges of rooms. They molt multiple times as they grow, leaving behind cast skins. The larval stage can last from 9 months to 3 years depending on conditions.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered a significant household pest due to its ability to damage natural fiber products like carpets, clothing, and upholstery. The bristly hairs of the larvae can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers, breaking down dead insects and animal remains.

Identified on: 11/7/2025