Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in carpets, cupboards, closets, and storage boxes; outdoors in bird nests or on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on organic animal-based materials such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects; can also feed on stored grains and cereal.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae are slow-moving and avoid light. They spend most of their time feeding in dark, undisturbed areas before pupating into adult beetles.

Risks & Benefits

Can cause significant damage to household fabrics and textiles. Some people may experience 'carpet beetle dermatitis,' an allergic reaction to the larva's tiny hairs (hastisetae).

Identified on: 5/20/2026