Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in carpets, baseboards, and pantry shelves. Outdoors found in bird nests or on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather), dead insects, pet dander, and occasionally dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and tend to wander in search of food. They move slowly and often roll into a ball or play dead when disturbed. Adults eventually emerge and are attracted to light/windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, and natural fiber heirlooms. The bristly hairs on the larvae can cause an allergic skin reaction in some people (carpet beetle dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dried animal matter.

Identified on: 3/2/2026