Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, typically found in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, drawers, under carpets, or near natural fiber textiles.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dead skin cells, pet hair, dead insects, and dried plant materials.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark, secluded places and move slowly. They undergo several molts before pupating. The adult beetles are attracted to light and often fly toward windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, wool, and museum specimens. Some people experience 'carpet beetle dermatitis,' an allergic skin reaction to the larval hairs (setae). Benefits: In nature, they help decompose dead animal matter.

Identified on: 2/18/2026