Carpet Beetle (larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors in homes, museums, warehouses; feeds on natural fibers, furs, feathers, stored food products. Outdoors in nests of birds and insects.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich materials (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried animal products, stored pet food, cereals, sometimes synthetic fibers or plants.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the damaging stage, often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and tend to curl up when disturbed. Adults feed on pollen and nectar and are generally harmless.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, taxidermy, and other household items made of natural fibers. Can contaminate stored food products. Some people may experience allergic reactions to larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition, but this is usually not observed in a household context.

Identified on: 11/18/2025