Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas rich in natural fibers (carpets, woolens, furs, taxidermy, stored foods); also found in bird nests outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, leather, feathers, hair), dried animal products, stored grains, and plant-based materials.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, undisturbed places. They are slow-moving and tend to avoid light. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). The bristly appearance (like the image) is characteristic of the larval stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant pests of households and museums, causing damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, and natural history specimens. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits: As decomposers, they play a minor role in breaking down organic matter in natural environments.

Identified on: 9/5/2025