Carpet Beetle (though the image is blurry, it strongly resembles a varied carpet beetle larva)
Scientific Name: Likely *Anthrenus verbasci* (Varied Carpet Beetle)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: Larvae are typically 2-5 mm (0.08-0.2 inches) long. Adults are small, oval beetles, about 2-3 mm (0.08-0.12 inches) long.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, especially in homes, museums, and warehouses where animal products or natural fibers are stored. Outdoors, they can be found in bird nests, animal burrows, and around flowering plants.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on a wide range of animal products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, pet food, and dead insects. They also consume synthetic fibers if they are soiled with perspiration or food. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetle larvae typically avoid light and feed in dark, undisturbed areas. They are often found in closets, under furniture, or in cracks and crevices. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Carpet beetles are significant household pests, causing damage to fabrics, carpets, upholstery, and stored foods. Their larvae can cause skin irritation in some individuals (dermestid dermatitis) due to allergic reactions to their bristles. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.
Identified on: 9/2/2025