Bug Identifier
Carpet Beetle Larva
Community identification

Carpet Beetle Larva

Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size
4mm to 5mm (approximately 1/8 to 3/16 inch)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and baseboards; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and lint, as well as dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo complete metamorphosis; the larval stage can last from several months to a year depending on food availability.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to fabrics and stored goods. Their bristly hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.