Carpet Beetle (larva)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in undisturbed areas like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, and museum collections. They feed on natural fibers and animal products.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried animal specimens, museum exhibits, cereals, and even pet food. They are scavengers.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and often roll into a ball when disturbed. The adult beetles are often found outdoors feeding on nectar and pollen, but they lay their eggs indoors where larvae can find food sources. The larval stage is the damaging stage of their life cycle.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles (carpets, clothing, upholstery), museum specimens, and stored foods. They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. There are generally no direct benefits to humans, though they play a role in decomposition in natural settings.

Identified on: 10/30/2025