Carpet Beetle Larva (specifically Varied Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, underneath carpets, inside drawers, in air ducts, or near natural fiber sources (wool, silk, fur).

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers and dead plant or animal matter such as carpet, wool, felt, silk, fur, feathers, dead insects, pet dander, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae avoid light and move slowly. They are known for shedding their hairy skins (molting) as they grow, which are often found near infestation sites. The adult beetles are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: The larvae are a significant household pest that can damage clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum specimens. The tiny hairs (setae) on the larva can cause skin irritation or dermatitis (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead organic matter.

Identified on: 3/10/2026