
Community identification
Carpet beetle larva (likely)
Anthrenus spp. or related dermestid
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera, Dermestidae
- Size
- Typically 2–5 mm long at this apparent stage; mature larvae may reach 3–6 mm, depending on species.
Natural Habitat
Indoor carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, and stored natural-fiber materials; adults often occur near windows or flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae consume keratin-rich materials such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, and dead insects. Adults generally feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae hide in dark, undisturbed areas and molt repeatedly, leaving shed skins and causing small irregular holes. They develop slowly indoors; adults are small, oval beetles that may fly toward light.
Risks & Benefits
They can damage clothing, carpets, taxidermy, and other animal-based materials; larval hairs may irritate sensitive skin. They recycle dead organic matter outdoors, while adults can pollinate flowers.