Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, typically found in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, in storage areas, carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, and museum collections. They prefer animal-derived materials.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials of animal origin, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, felt, animal hair, stored food products (especially those containing dried animal protein), and even dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and often hide in cracks, crevices, or within the materials they are consuming. They are known for their Bristly appearance and tend to curl up when disturbed. Adults are winged and are primarily outdoor feeders on pollen and nectar, but they lay eggs indoors on suitable food sources.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles, carpets, clothing, and museum artifacts. They can also contaminate stored food products. While not known to bite humans or transmit diseases, some people may experience allergic reactions to their bristles or shed skins. There are no direct benefits of carpet beetles in an indoor environment, but outdoors, adult beetles can contribute to pollination.

Identified on: 10/7/2025