Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, seeking dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, behind baseboards, and within upholstered furniture. They feed on natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich materials like wool, silk, animal hair, feathers, furs, leather, dried insects, and sometimes stored food products. The larvae are the destructive stage.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded spaces. They grow through several instars (molting stages) before pupating. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light, or outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to natural fiber textiles, clothing, carpets, museum specimens, and stored foods. They do not bite or sting humans, but their shed larval skins and bristles can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some sensitive individuals. Benefits: None in a household pest context; in nature, they contribute to decomposition of animal remains.

Identified on: 11/3/2025