Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in carpets, or near natural fiber storage. Outdoors, adults are found on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dead insects. They can damage clothing, carpets, and upholstery.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae move slowly and avoid light, often hiding in cracks or folds of fabric. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins that can resemble the larva itself. This stage is where they cause damage.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or sting and are not poisonous, but the tiny bristles (hastisetae) on the larvae can cause an itchy allergic reaction or dermatitis in some humans. They are considered pests due to the damage they cause to household fabrics and stored goods.

Identified on: 3/3/2026