Bug Identifier
Varied Carpet Beetle
Community identification

Varied Carpet Beetle

Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size
Adults are approximately 1.7 to 3.5 mm in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under baseboards or in closets.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, hair, feathers, and dried protein-based animal products; adults feed on pollen/nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are scavengers that undergo complex metamorphosis and avoid light.

Risks & Benefits

Can be a serious household pest by damaging fabrics, carpets, and upholstery; hairs on larvae can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in humans.