
Community identification
Carpet Beetle
Anthrenus verbasci
- Order & Family
- Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
- Size
- 2mm to 4mm in length
Natural Habitat
Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, as well as outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried food, and pet hair. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
The larvae are the destructive stage, often hiding in dark, undisturbed areas like closets or baseboards. Adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows.
Risks & Benefits
Risks include damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Some people may experience allergic reactions or skin rashes from contact with the larval hairs. They offer no significant benefits to human environments.