Carpet Beetle Larva (most likely)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in areas with natural fibers like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, and stored food products. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal carcasses, and dried plant material.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae primarily feed on natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried animal products. They can also feed on stored food items like cereals, dried meat, and pet food.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae are typically slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins. Adult carpet beetles are winged and often feed on pollen and nectar outdoors, while larvae are destructive feeders indoors. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, including clothing, carpets, and museum specimens. They do not bite or sting humans, but their shed skins or bristles can cause skin irritation in some sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.

Identified on: 11/6/2025