Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Coleoptera (Order), Dermestidae (Family)
Size: Adults: 1.7 to 3.5 mm (roughly 1/16 to 1/8 inch); Larvae can be slightly larger, up to 5 mm.
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses, often hiding in darkness under carpets, furniture, or in closets. Outdoors, larvae live in bird nests or under bark.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, pet dander, and dried plant products. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae (often called 'woolly bears') are slow-moving and avoid light, chewing irregular holes in fabrics. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windowsills in spring.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: The larvae are a significant household pest, causing damage to clothes, carpets, and upholstery. Their bristles can cause allergic dermatitis in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead organic matter.
Identified on: 2/25/2026