Varied Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size: 2 mm to 4 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, or outdoors on flowering plants.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae eat natural fibers, dried organic matter, and keratin; adults eat pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows; larvae are scavengers that prefer dark, undisturbed areas.
Risks & Benefits
Can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and taxidermy; larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.
Identified on: 2/26/2026