Carpet Beetle (Larva) - likely Varied Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Coleoptera (Beetles), Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)
Size: Larvae range from 3 to 5 mm in length.
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in dark, secluded areas like under furniture, in closets, along baseboards, and in stored woolens or carpets. In nature, they live in bird nests and animal dens.
Diet & Feeding
Feed on natural fibers and protein-based materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, pet hair, dead insects, and dried plant products.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae avoid light and move slowly. They are known as 'woolly bears' due to their hairy appearance. They molt several times before pupating into adult beetles. The damage appears as irregular holes in fabrics.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum specimens. The tiny hairs on the larvae can cause allergic dermatitis or skin irritation in sensitive individuals. They do not bite or sting.
Identified on: 2/23/2026