Varied Carpet Beetle

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae

Size: 2mm to 4mm in length

Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, they are common in houses, apartments, and warehouses. Outdoors, they are found on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on natural fibers, feathers, fur, hair, and dried animal or plant products.

Behavior Patterns

They undergo complete metamorphosis. Adults are often seen on windowsills trying to go outside to mate, while larvae live in dark, undisturbed areas consuming natural materials.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite or sting humans, but they are common household pests that can damage clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Their larval hairs can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.

Identified on: 4/21/2026