Carpet beetle larvae are the destructive phase of carpet beetles. They typically measure 3 to 8 mm in length and have a carrot or oval shape. Their bodies are usually covered with coarse, dense hairs which can sometimes cause skin irritation. The coloration varies by species but generally includes shades of brown, tan, and yellow with striped or fuzzy appearances. These larvae feed on natural animal-based materials such as wool, leather, feathers, fur, and other fabrics, often causing damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture. They often hide in undisturbed areas like along baseboards, under furniture, inside closets, or in storage areas. The larvae can survive long periods without food and move from room to room searching for food sources. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar but can sometimes infest stored human foods as well. Larvae identification can include noticing shed skins and damage to natural fibers. Control involves thorough cleaning, vacuuming, and sometimes insecticide treatment to eliminate hiding larvae and eggs. Key characteristics of carpet beetle larvae include:
- Size: 3-8 mm long
- Shape: Carrot-shaped to oval
- Body: Covered with coarse hairs, sometimes with long "tail" hairs in black carpet beetle larvae
- Color: Brown to tan with stripes or fuzzy appearance
- Habitat: Dark, undisturbed places indoors, feeding on animal-based fibers
- Damage: Causes holes and damage to wool, leather, feathers, and fur items
They do not bite but can cause allergic skin reactions due to the hairs on their bodies.
