Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle) or Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle) - cannot specify exactly from image
Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae
Size: 2-5 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoors: carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, stored foods. Outdoors: nests of birds/insects, decaying organic matter, sometimes on flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried animal products (dead insects, pet food), and some stored plant products. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are destructive household pests, often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They molt several times, leaving behind shed skins. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. Life cycle can take several months to a year depending on conditions.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Significant economic damage to textiles, furs, and stored products. Can cause allergic reactions in some individuals due to shed skins and bristles. Benefits: As scavengers, they play a minor role in breaking down organic matter in natural environments.
Identified on: 10/18/2025