Carpet Beetle Larva (Shed Skin)

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, along baseboards, in closets, upholstered furniture, and air ducts where larval food sources accumulate.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin and chitin found in natural fibers such as wool, fur, feathers, silk, leather, as well as on dead insects, pet hair, and stored food products.

Behavior Patterns

Adult beetles often fly indoors to lay eggs on or near a suitable food source. The larvae are the damaging stage; they prefer darkness and will crawl to seek food. As they grow, they molt several times, leaving behind their characteristic bristly shed skins.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered a household pest. The larvae can cause significant damage to household items like clothing, carpets, and taxidermy. The barbed hairs on the larvae and shed skins can cause an allergic reaction or dermatitis in some individuals. Benefits: In nature, they are important decomposers, helping to break down animal remains.

Identified on: 11/7/2025