Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle)

Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae

Size: Typically 3 to 5 millimeters in length

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, behind baseboards, and in attics or near air ducts. In nature, they live in bird nests and animal dens.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on natural fibers and keratin-based materials, including wool, fur, silk, feathers, dried skin, pet hair, and lint.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae prefer dark, secluded spaces and can wander from room to room. They are known for moving slowly and molting several times, leaving behind shed skins. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: They are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture. Benefit: In nature, they act as decomposers by breaking down animal remains.

Identified on: 3/9/2026