Carpet Beetle Larva

Found indoors in homes, particularly in carpets, upholstery, closets, and behind baseboards; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers and dried animal products including wool, silk, leather, fur, feathers, pet hair, and lint.

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light (negatively phototactic). They undergo several molts, leaving behind translucent brown skins, and prefer dark, undisturbed areas to feed.

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household textiles and stored goods. Benefit: In nature, they serve as scavengers by breaking down organic debris. Note: Their hairs can cause skin irritation or 'carpet beetle dermatitis' in sensitive individuals.