Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, drawers, air ducts, or baseboards. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and feed on pollen.

Diet & Feeding

They feed on natural fibers and keratin-based materials, including wool, fur, silk, feathers, dead insects, pet dander, and occasionally dried plant products.

Behavior Patterns

The larvae avoid light and move slowly. They are known to molt several times, leaving behind shed skins that look like hollow versions of themselves. This is the destructive stage of the insect's life cycle.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pest that damages clothing, carpets, and upholstery made from natural fibers. The tiny hairs on the larvae (hastisetae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers, breaking down dead animal matter.

Identified on: 2/25/2026