Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae

Size: 4 mm to 5 mm in length

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes and warehouses, often hiding under baseboards, in carpets, or within dark storage areas like closets and attic spaces.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on dry animal products including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, and pet hair, as well as dried food products and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are largely nocturnal and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo a complete metamorphosis with the larval stage lasting anywhere from 220 to 600 days depending on temperature and food availability.

Risks & Benefits

They are common household pests that cause damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Additionally, the larval hairs (setae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 12/30/2025