Bug Identifier
Carpet Beetle Larva
Community identification

Carpet Beetle Larva

Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size
4 mm to 5 mm in length
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and baseboards, or outdoors in bird nests and flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, feathers, fur, and hair, as well as dried food products and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and tend to avoid light, often hiding in dark undisturbed areas. They undergo a lengthy larval stage lasting several months to a year.

Risks & Benefits

Major household pests that can damage clothing and textiles. While they do not bite humans, their bristly hairs can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.