Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae

Size: 4 to 5 mm in length

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in homes, specifically near baseboards, under furniture, in closets, and within natural fiber textiles like carpets, wool, and upholstery.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on dry animal and plant matter, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, pet hair, dead insects, and stored grains.

Behavior Patterns

They are scavengers that prefer dark, undisturbed areas. As larvae, they undergo several molts, leaving behind empty tan skins. They are often most active during the spring and summer.

Risks & Benefits

A professional pest; they can damage clothing, furniture, and rugs. While they do not bite humans, their bristly hairs can cause allergic reactions or skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 12/27/2025