Carpet Beetle Larva (specifically Varied Carpet Beetle Larva)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Coleoptera (Beetles), Family Dermestidae
Size: Typically 3 to 5 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Commonly found indoors in homes, particularly in carpets, closets, under furniture, in dried food storage, and bird nests. Outdoors, they are found in bird and mammal nests.
Diet & Feeding
They feed on natural fibers and dead organic matter, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, dead insects, pet hair, and dried plant products.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They move slowly and may curl up into a ball when disturbed. They go through multiple molts before pupating, and the fuzzy 'hairs' (setae) are a defense mechanism.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Major household pest that damages clothing, carpets, and upholstery made of natural fibers. The tiny hairs can cause allergic dermatitis or skin irritation in some people. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers, breaking down dead animal matter.
Identified on: 3/5/2026