Carpet beetle larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in cracks, and air ducts. They feed on natural fibers and dead organic matter.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials such as wool, silk, feathers, fur, animal hair, stored food products, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are destructive feeders, often found in dark, undisturbed places. They undergo complete metamorphosis. Adults are typically attracted to light and may be found near windows, but the larvae are the damaging stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens made of natural fibers. They do not bite or transmit diseases to humans. Benefits: As scavengers, they play a role in breaking down organic matter in nature.

Identified on: 9/20/2025