Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle) or Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle)

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae

Size: 2-5 mm (adults)

Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas, closets, attics, under furniture. Can also be found outdoors in nests of birds and insects.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, and also dried animal products, stored foods, and pet food. Adult beetles feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae cause damage to textiles and other organic materials. They are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are attracted to light and may be found near windows. Their life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages, with larvae being the destructive stage.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, including clothing, carpets, and upholstered furniture. They do not bite or transmit diseases. Benefits: As scavengers, they play a role in decomposition in nature by consuming organic matter.

Identified on: 11/16/2025