Varied Carpet Beetle

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Coleoptera (Beetles), Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)

Size: Adults: 1.7 to 3.5 mm (approx. 1/16 to 1/8 inch); Larvae: 4 to 5 mm

Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Often found indoors on carpets, woolens, furs, and stored clothing; outdoors found on flowers and in bird nests

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, dead insects, and dried plant material; adults feed on pollen and nectar

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and hide in dark crevices, folds of fabric, or under furniture

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, and museum specimens; Benefit: Assist in decomposition of dead organic seasonal matter outdoors

Identified on: 2/19/2026