Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas with natural fibers like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, and stored food products.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on animal-based materials such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dead insects, pet hair, and sometimes stored food products like dried meat, cheese, and cereals.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, secluded places. They are slow-moving and prefer undisturbed areas. They molt multiple times as they grow, sometimes leaving behind shed skins. Adult carpet beetles feed on pollen and nectar outdoors and are attracted to light.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal property (clothing, carpets, furniture) made of natural fibers, and contamination of stored food products. They can also cause allergic reactions (dermatitis or respiratory issues) in sensitive individuals due to their bristly hairs. They are not known to spread diseases to humans.

Identified on: 10/31/2025