Carpet Beetle Larva (most likely a Varied Carpet Beetle larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas such as under furniture, in closets, cracks and crevices, and around baseboards. Outdoors, they can be found in insect nests, animal nests, and feeding on pollen.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on a wide variety of organic materials, including wool, silk, feathers, fur, animal hides, dried meat and insects, pet food, and occasionally synthetic fibers blended with natural ones. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are slow-moving and avoid light. They undergo several molts as they grow. The 'hairy' appearance with bristles (setae) is characteristic and can cause skin irritation in some individuals. Adults are winged and can fly, often attracted to light, and may enter homes through open windows or doors.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are significant household pests, causing damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, and stored foods containing animal products. Their shed skins and bristly hairs can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition, breaking down animal carcasses and organic matter. However, their pest status far outweighs any perceived benefits in a domestic setting.

Identified on: 9/17/2025