Larder Beetle Larva (or less likely, a similar Dermestid beetle larva)

Typically found indoors in dry, dark places like pantries, closets, under baseboards, or near accumulated dead insect remains. They are attracted to cured meats, dried pet food, furs, feathers, and organic debris.

Scavengers feeding on high-protein organic materials such as dried meats, cheese, dry pet food, dead insects, feathers, hair, skin flakes (dander), and wool.

The larvae shun light and tunnel into soft wood, insulation, or other solid materials to create a protected chamber for pupation. They are often discovered when they wander away from food sources looking for a pupation site.

Risks: They are household pests that can damage pantry goods, taxidermy, textiles, and furs. The larvae's tiny hairs (setae) can occasionally cause skin irritation or dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In the wild, they act as decomposers of animal carcasses.