
Community identification
Carpet beetle larva
Likely a varied carpet beetle larva (*Anthrenus verbasci*)
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera, Dermestidae
- Size
- Typically 3–5 mm long.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, especially in closets, carpets, upholstered furniture, and other undisturbed areas containing lint or natural fibers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on wool, feathers, fur, dead insects, and other keratin-rich materials; adults feed mainly on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
The small, bristly, tapered larva crawls slowly and may leave shed skins. Adults are usually found near windows or outdoors in spring and summer.
Risks & Benefits
Larvae can damage natural-fiber clothing and furnishings; their hairs may irritate sensitive skin. They do not bite or transmit disease.