Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci (more specific identification is difficult from image)

Order & Family: Coleoptera, Dermestidae

Size: 2-5 mm in length

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoors, commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses. They prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under carpets, in closets, or in stored items.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, and dried animal products. They are scavengers.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light. They undergo several molts before pupating. The adult beetles are often found outdoors feeding on pollen and nectar, but lay eggs indoors on suitable food sources.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to personal belongings (clothing, carpets, furniture), museum specimens, and stored food products. They do not bite or sting humans. No significant benefits are known in a human-dwelling context.

Identified on: 9/18/2025