Carpet Beetle Larva

Indoor environments like homes, warehouses, and museums. They are often found in dark, undisturbed areas such as under furniture, in closets, or inside air ducts.

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers, animal by-products, and dried organic material including wool, silk, hair, feathers, dead insects, and pet food.

The larval stage is the longest part of the life cycle, lasting months to years. They are slow-moving and avoid light (lucifugous), often leaving behind shed 'fuzzy' skins as they grow.

Risks: Significant pests that damage clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Some people may experience allergic reactions or skin rashes (dermatitis) from contact with the larvae's barbed hairs. Benefits: In the wild, they help decompose animal remains.