Varied Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Coleoptera (Beetles), Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)

Size: Larvae are typically 4-5 mm in length.

Varied Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments (homes, museums, warehouses), particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, under rugs, and vents; outdoors found in bird nests or bee hives.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried plant products, dead insects, pet hair, and lint. Adults feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark places and will avoid light (

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pest that can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, and taxidermy. Hair-like bristles on larvae can cause skin irritation (dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers/scavengers.

Identified on: 3/1/2026