Carpet Beetle larvae (or similar dermestid beetle larvae)

Natural Habitat

Indoors: carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, stored food products, taxidermy. Outdoors: nests of birds and insects, animal carcasses.

Diet & Feeding

Opportunistic scavengers. Larvae feed on a variety of organic materials including natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), animal products (dried meat, pet food), dried plant materials, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where their food sources are present. They are often slow-moving and prefer dry environments. Adults are often attracted to light and may be seen near windows; they feed on pollen and nectar outdoors. The life cycle involves egg, several larval instars, pupa, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to natural fiber textiles, carpets, and stored goods in homes and museums. Their shed skins can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. Benefits: Play a role in decomposition in natural environments by consuming animal remains and dried organic matter.

Identified on: 10/3/2025