Varied Carpet Beetle (Adult) or Black Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci or Attagenus unicolor
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera (Beetles), Family: Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)
Size: Typically 1.7 to 3.5 mm (roughly 1/16 to 1/8 inch) in length
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in homes, specifically near windowsills, in carpets, closets, or pantries. Outdoors, they are found on flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors. Larvae (wool bears) consume keratin-based materials like wool, fur, silk, leather, feathers, dead insects, and sometimes stored food products.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are attracted to light and are often seen trying to exit through windows. The larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and hide in dark crevices, under furniture, or in folds of clothing where they feed.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite, sting, or carry diseases dangerous to humans. However, the larvae are a significant household pest that can cause damage to woolen carpets, specialized clothing, and taxidermy. Some people may experience dermatitis or allergic reactions from contact with larval hairs.
Identified on: 2/20/2026