
Community identification
Carpet Beetle Larva
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- 4mm to 5mm (approximately 1/8 to 3/16 inch)
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.