Carpet Beetle Larva (Shed Skin / Exuviae)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (most likely Varied Carpet Beetle)
Order & Family: Coleoptera; Dermestidae
Size: 2-5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, in carpets, or near woolens and stored products. Outdoors, they are found in bird or insect nests.
Diet & Feeding
The larvae feed on keratin-based animal products (wool, fur, silk, leather, feathers), dead insects, and dry food products.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae prefer dark, secluded spaces. The image depicts a shed skin (exuviae), which the larva leaves behind as it molts and grows; finding these is often the first sign of an infestation.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and taxidermy. The small hairs (hastisetae) on their bodies (and shed skins) can cause contact dermatitis or allergic reactions in some humans. Benefits: None in a household setting; in nature, they help decompose dead organic matter.
Identified on: 3/10/2026