Carpet Beetle (Larva or Adult - hard to identify definitively due to image quality)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle) or Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle)
Order & Family: Coleoptera; Dermestidae
Size: Typically 1.7 to 3.5 mm in length for adults; larvae can be slightly longer (up to 4-5 mm).
Natural Habitat
Commonly found indoors in homes, specifically in carpets, closets, pantries, and near natural fibers like wool or silk. In nature, they live in bird nests and animal dens.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, fur, silk, leather, feathers, and dead insects. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar outdoors but do not damage fabrics.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and tend to hide in dark crevices, under furniture, or inside stored clothing. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windowsills.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or spread disease, but the larvae are significant household pests that cause damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Some people may experience dermatitis or allergic reactions from contact with larval hairs.
Identified on: 2/21/2026