Carpet Beetle Larva (or possibly a very small, light-colored mite or a piece of lint)
Scientific Name: Dermestidae (if Carpet Beetle)
Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae (if Carpet Beetle)
Size: Typically 1-5 mm, depending on species and developmental stage.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, commonly found in carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, and stored food products. Outdoors, they can be found in animal nests or dead insects.
Diet & Feeding
Carpet beetle larvae feed on a wide variety of organic materials, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, dead insects, and stored food products like grains and spices. They do not feed on synthetic fibers.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and tend to curl up when disturbed. They go through several instars before pupating. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light and feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include damage to personal property (clothing, carpets, furniture) and stored food items. Some people may experience allergic reactions (dermatitis) to the larval hairs. They are not known to spread diseases to humans or pets. In nature, they act as decomposers, helping to break down organic matter.
Identified on: 11/29/2025