Carpet Beetle
Anthrenus scrophulariae (varied carpet beetle) or Dermestes lardarius (larder beetle) - identification is difficult from the image quality, but it resembles a carpet beetle larva
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera, Dermestidae
- Size
- 2-4 mm (adults), larvae can be slightly larger up to 5mm.
Natural Habitat
Indoors: carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, stored foods, animal products like wool, fur, feathers, leather. Outdoors: bird nests, animal carcasses, insect nests.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried animal products, dead insects, pet food, and sometimes pantry items. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and prefer to feed on animal-based materials. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows in homes.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of natural fibers, museum collections, and stored goods. They are not known to bite or carry diseases harmful to humans. Benefits: play a role in decomposition in nature by consuming organic matter.