Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in homes near carpets, upholstery, woolens, and stored food products.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on organic materials including wool, fur, feathers, silk, dead insects, hair, and occasionally stored grains.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo multiple molts, leaving behind characteristic hollow brown skins. They have a slow development cycle that can last several months to years.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest that can damage fabrics and natural fibers. Some people may experience 'carpet beetle dermatitis,' an allergic reaction to the larval hairs (setae) which can cause itchy red bumps.

Identified on: 4/7/2026