Carpet Beetle
Scientific Name: Dermestes lardarius (Larder Beetle) or Anthrenus scrophulariae (Common Carpet Beetle) or related species within Dermestidae, as the image is too blurry for precise identification. The size and shape suggest a carpet beetle.
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: Typically 2-5 mm (0.08-0.2 inches) in length.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, larvae are common in undisturbed areas of homes, museums, warehouses, and storage facilities, especially where animal-derived materials are present. Outdoors, adults are found on plants and flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on a variety of animal-based products, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, pet hair, dried meat, and dead insects. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetles undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult). The larvae avoid light and prefer dark, undisturbed areas, often found in closets, drawers, and under furniture. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. They are slow-moving but can fly. Females lay eggs on suitable food sources.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include damage to personal belongings (clothing, carpets, upholstery), museum specimens, and stored products. They do not bite humans but can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals from larval hairs. Benefits include their role as scavengers in nature, breaking down organic matter.
Identified on: 8/31/2025