Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and storage areas. They prefer dark, undisturbed places like carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, and around baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products and natural fibers including wool, silk, feathers, fur, leather, hair, dead insects, museum specimens, and sometimes dried plant products. They do not feed on synthetic materials.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae are slow-moving and often found crawling in protected areas. They are known to shed their skins multiple times as they grow, leaving behind characteristic bristly, shell-like casings. Adult carpet beetles are typically attracted to light and are often found near windows, feeding on pollen and nectar outdoors, or sometimes indoors if they emerge from infested materials.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Carpet beetle larvae are significant household pests, causing damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum collections. Some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions from contact with the larvae's bristles. Benefits: In nature, some species play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.

Identified on: 10/31/2025