Carpet Beetle

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae

Size: 1.5 to 3 mm in length

Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Often found indoors in carpets, upholstery, and natural fibers; outdoors on flowers and plants.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. Larvae avoid light and hide in dark, undisturbed areas where they feed.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, such as carpets, clothing, and upholstery. Some people may experience allergic reactions to the larval hairs. Benefits: Act as decomposers in nature, helping to break down dead animal and plant matter.

Identified on: 6/16/2026