Carpet Beetle Larva (specifically the freshly molted or 'hairy' appearance of Anthrenus species)

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, in carpets, and near natural fibers like wool or silk. Outdoors, adults are found on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dead insects, and pet hair. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae avoid light and prefer dark crevices where organic debris accumulates. They shed their skins multiple times as they grow, leaving behind empty, hairy husks like the one potentially pictured here.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pests that damage textiles, clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. Some people experience allergic dermatitis ('carpet beetle dermatitis') from contact with the larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter.

Identified on: 3/4/2026