Variable Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: 2mm - 4mm in length
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments like homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors on flowering plants.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae eat natural fibers (wool, silk, fur), dried food, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are avoidant of light and move slowly while feeding; adults are attracted to light and often found near windows during spring.
Risks & Benefits
Significant pest of household goods and museum collections; larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in humans.
Identified on: 4/12/2026