Carpet Beetle Larva (possibly varied carpet beetle or furniture carpet beetle)
Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci or Anthrenus scrophulariae (species identification requires clearer imaging)
Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae
Size: 2-5 "mm" (larva)
Natural Habitat
Indoors, commonly found in homes on carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, and stored food products. Outdoors, they live in nests of birds and insects and feed on dead organic matter.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-based materials (wool, silk, leather, feathers, hair), dried animal products (pet food, dead insects), and plant-based materials (cereals, grains).
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are elusive and prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They are slow-moving and covered in bristles. Adults are attracted to light and feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include damage to textiles, carpets, and stored food items. Their bristles can also cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals. They are generally not beneficial in a household setting, though outdoors they contribute to decomposition.
Identified on: 10/29/2025