Mystery Worms in 3rd Floor Chicago Condo: Need Identification First

A Chicago condo resident (3rd floor, new construction, balcony) finds 20+ live "worms" daily—tiny maggot-like to larger dark "mamas." Curled dead ones under furniture. Landlord blames plants; resident suspects outside entry (vents, fireplace). Two small children, one crawling.

Critical Need: Proper Identification

Without a photo, identification is impossible. The description doesn't match millipedes (unlikely on 3rd floor). "Worms" could be:

• Indian meal moth larvae (pantry pests)
• Carpet beetle larvae
• Drain fly larvae
• Other stored product or fabric pests

Immediate Steps

1. Collect specimens in alcohol
2. Take to local university or Cooperative Extension office (search zip code + "Extension")
3. Once identified, targeted safe treatment can be recommended

Safety First

Do not apply pesticides until pest is confirmed. With crawling children, non-chemical methods (sanitation, exclusion, traps) are preferred.