Varied Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Often found indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses. They hide in dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, in closets, drawer cracks, and bird nests.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin-based natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, dried skin, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae avoid light and seek out dark crevices. They move slowly and may roll up when disturbed. The larval stage is destructive and can last a year or more depending on conditions before pupating into small, round beetles.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pest; the larvae damage clothing, carpets, and stored fabrics. Their bristly hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers by breaking down animal matter.

Identified on: 2/24/2026