Carpet Beetle Larva

Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, attic spaces, and inside air ducts. They are often discovered in woolen carpets, stored clothing, bird nests, or accumulated lint and pet hair.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers and protein-rich materials including wool, fur, silk, leather, feathers, dead insects, pet hair, and dried food products (grains, pet food). They generally do not eat synthetic fibers unless heavily soiled with food or oil.

The larval stage is the destructive phase. They are photophobic (avoid light) and prefer to stay hidden in folds of fabric or cracks. As they grow, they shed their skins (molt), leaving behind empty, hairy husks that are often the first sign of infestation.

Risks: They are a significant household pest that causes damage to expensive textiles, rugs, and taxidermy. While they do not bite or spread disease, the bristles (hastisetae) on the larvae can cause contact dermatitis or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they act as scavengers/decomposers that break down dried animal remains.