Varied Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors on carpets, woolens, furs, stuffed furniture, and in closets. In nature, they inhabit birds' nests and bees' nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, leather, hair, and dead insects. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and prefer dark, secluded areas where they can feed undisturbed. They undergo complete metamorphosis. The fuzzy appearance often leads to them being called 'woolly bears'.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, and stored fabrics; their tiny hairs (hastisetae) can cause allergic skin reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In nature, they are decomposers, helping break down dead organic matter.

Identified on: 2/26/2026