Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas rich in organic materials like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, museums, and food storage areas. Outdoors, they can be found in animal nests, dried carcasses, and under bark.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, leather, feathers, hair), dried animal products, stored grains and food products, insect collections.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically slow-moving and avoid light. They feed secretly, often causing damage before they are noticed. They undergo several instars (molts) before pupating. The bristly appearance is characteristic of the larval stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant household and museum pests, causing damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and stored food. Can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals due to their bristly hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition, breaking down animal carcasses and detritus. However, their presence indoors is almost always considered a nuisance.

Identified on: 9/7/2025