Adult body is rounded oval; there are yellow, white, and black spots scattered on the dorsal surface. Larvae are distinctly banded with a tuft of long setae at the end of the body.
Development. Eggs are laid in batches of up to 57 eggs; hatching occurs in 9 to 16 days. Larval development is 112 to 378 days depending on temperature. Development from egg to adult is 93 to 422 days, and adults live 30 to 60 days. Adults emerge in spring.
Habits. Larvae feed in a limited radius and their cast larval skins can accumulate in one place, which gives the appearance of a severe infestation. Larvae feed on wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dry animal material.