Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, attics, under furniture, and in areas where natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers) are stored. Can also be found feeding on dried animal products.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried pet food, dead insects, museum specimens, and sometimes synthetic fibers if mixed with natural ones or stained with food.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are often slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded spaces. They have a bristly, segmented body. They are the destructive stage of the carpet beetle lifecycle, causing damage as they feed. Adults (beetles) are attracted to light and are often found near windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant pests of stored products and textiles, capable of causing considerable damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum artifacts made of natural fibers. Can also infest dried foods. Benefits: In nature, some species play a role in decomposition by feeding on carrion and dried animal remains.

Identified on: 10/7/2025