
Community identification
Carpet Beetle
Anthrenus verbasci (and related species)
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- 2mm - 4mm in length
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors on flowers feeding on pollen.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dry skin. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under furniture or along baseboards. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows.
Risks & Benefits
Larvae are common pests that damage textiles, carpets, and stored clothing. They do not bite, but their hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.