Carpet beetle larva

Indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and dusty, undisturbed areas; also found outdoors on flowers and in bird or insect nests.

Larvae eat keratin-rich materials such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, dead insects, and natural-fiber fabrics. Adults mainly consume pollen and nectar.

Larvae are slow-moving, hairy, and avoid light; they shed bristly skins and can remain hidden for months. Adults emerge seasonally and commonly gather around windows.

Larval hairs may cause itchy skin irritation or allergic reactions, and infestations can damage woolens, furs, and taxidermy. They recycle animal debris outdoors, while adults contribute modestly to pollination.