Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, in carpets, or near animal-based materials like wool, fur, or feathers. They are also found outdoors in bird nests.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dead insects. They can also eat dried food products like grains and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae move slowly and tend to avoid light. They are often responsible for the damage attributed to 'carpet beetles,' as the adults feed on flower pollen. If disturbed, they may sometimes roll up or play dead.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and taxidermy. The small hairs (setae) on the larvae can cause an allergic skin reaction known as carpet beetle dermatitis in some individuals. They do not bite or sting but are household pests.

Identified on: 2/10/2026