Common Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Commonly found indoors in carpets, upholstery, clothing, and near feathered or woolly materials, as well as in bird and rodent nests.

Larvae feed on keratins and proteins found in natural animal fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as stored dried foods.

Larvae are slow-moving and often hide in dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo several molts, leaving behind characteristic hairy cast skins. Adults are often found near windows as they are attracted to light.

Risks include significant damage to household textiles, clothing, and museum specimens. Some people may experience allergic reactions or dermatitis from contact with the larval hairs. They provide an ecosystem benefit by breaking down dead animal matter in nature.