Carpet Beetle Larva (likely distinct)

Typically found indoors in dark, secluded areas such as closets, under furniture, in carpets, or near wool, fur, or stored fabrics. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and feed on dead insects.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, fur, silk, feathers, leather, and dead insects. They also consume stored food products and pet hair.

The larvae avoid light and move slowly, often found burrowing into the material they are eating. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins that look like the infestation itself. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Risks: The larvae are a significant household pest, causing damage to clothes, carpets, and upholstered furniture. Their bristles can cause skin irritation or 'carpet beetle dermatitis' in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter.