Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors on carpets, woolens, closets, and darker areas like under furniture or baseboards; outdoors they inhabit bird nests and feed on pollen.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on natural fibers and keratin-based materials, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, leather, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae avoid light and seek out dark, undisturbed areas to feed. They are known for moving slowly and leaving shed skins (molts) as they grow. They overwinter as larvae before pupating.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are a household pest that can cause significant damage to fabrics, clothing, rugs, and taxidermy. Some people may experience 'carpet beetle dermatitis,' an allergic skin reaction to the larval hairs (bristles). Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers by breaking down animal matter.

Identified on: 2/12/2026