Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Dermestes lardarius (Larder Beetle), Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle), Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle) - specific identification is difficult from this image alone but it strongly resembles a carpet beetle.
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: Larvae: 2-5 mm; Adults: 2-5 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. Outdoors, adults can be found on flowers. Indoors, larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, in closets, pantries, and attics.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on a wide variety of organic materials, including animal products such as wool, fur, feathers, leather, dead insects, and dried animal remains. They also consume plant-based materials like grains, seeds, and dried plants. Adult carpet beetles primarily feed on pollen and nectar from outdoor flowers.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetle larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times as they grow, and their shed skins can be found. Adults are attracted to light and may be seen near windows.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Carpet beetles are considered household pests. Their larvae can damage natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), clothing, carpets, upholstery, mounted animal specimens, and stored foods. Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to their bristles or shed skins. Benefits: In natural environments, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.
Identified on: 8/13/2025