Carpet beetle (larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. Outdoors, they can be found in nests of birds, rodents, and insects.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products and natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, dried insects, and museum specimens. Adult beetles primarily feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are known for their slow movement and often curl up when disturbed. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. The entire life cycle, from egg to adult, can take anywhere from a few months to a year, depending on environmental conditions and food availability.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to fabrics, carpets, clothing, museum collections, and stored food products. They do not bite or sting humans. Benefits are minimal in household settings; however, in nature, they play a role in decomposition by consuming animal remains.

Identified on: 11/16/2025