Carpet Beetle Larva (frequently Varied Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (and related Anthrenus species)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size: Typically 3 to 5 mm (0.12 to 0.20 inches) in length
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, drawer cracks, near baseboards, and in stored natural fabric items. Outdoors, they are found in bird nests and hive boxes.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, leather, and dead insects. They consume keratin-based materials.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae prefer dark, secluded places and are photophobic (avoid light). They move slowly and often shed fuzzy skins (exuviae) as they grow. The adult beetles, conversely, are attracted to light and are often found on windowsills.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Major household pest that can damage clothing, carpets, and upholstery made of natural fibers. The larvae possess bristly hairs that can cause 'carpet beetle dermatitis' (skin irritation) in sensitive individuals. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead animal matter.
Identified on: 2/27/2026