There may be tail bristles visible at the back of the insect as well. Inspection commonly reveals either live larvae or sometimes cast skins of the larvae. It is this stage of the insect that actually ingests the food sources mentioned below. Carpet Beetle larvae may damage carpeting, clothing, hair, fur and animal hides. They will also feed on dead animal carcasses.
Most homeowners spot the larvae crawling along a surfaces somewhere.
They will wander about in areas away from where they feed. They will chew irregular holes in fabrics including carpeting, but often feed at the nap of the fabric without eating the base threads. A common food source for carpet beetles may be pet hair. Although one may find beetles as well as larvae, most specimens that we see are larvae. Cocoons are rarely found as they tend to blend in with the fabric, making them difficult to spot.