Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci
Order & Family: Coleoptera (Beetles), Dermestidae (Skin Beetles)
Size: 1.7 to 3.5 mm (0.07 to 0.14 in) in length
Natural Habitat
Indoors, commonly found in homes, particularly in carpets, closets, and areas with stored fabrics. In nature, on flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, dead insects, and pet hair. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Adults are often seen near windows trying to get outside. The larvae are secretive, preferring dark, undisturbed areas where they can feed on organic material.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum specimens. They do not bite, but their bristles can cause allergic skin reactions (carpet beetle dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they help decompose dead organic matter.
Identified on: 2/18/2026