Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, and around baseboards. They feed on natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, pet food, stored grains, museum specimens, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and often curl up into a C-shape when disturbed. Adult beetles are attracted to light and often found near windows, but the larvae are the destructive stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to natural fiber products like carpets, clothing, and other textiles, leading to holes and thinning of materials. Some people may also experience skin irritation (dermatitis) from contact with the larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they act as scavengers, breaking down organic materials like dead animals and insects.

Identified on: 10/1/2025