Carpet beetle larva (likely varied carpet beetle)

Indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, lint, and other sheltered areas; also found outdoors on flowers. Larvae hide in dark, undisturbed locations.

Larvae eat keratin-rich materials such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, silk, and dead insects. Adults mainly consume pollen and nectar and do not damage fabrics.

Larvae are slow-moving, hairy, and shed bristly skins as they develop; they may persist for months or years indoors. Adults emerge seasonally and seek light or flowers.

Larvae can damage natural-fiber clothing, carpets, and taxidermy; their hairs may irritate skin or airways in sensitive people. They recycle animal-based debris outdoors, while adults pollinate flowers.