Bug Identifier
Carpet Beetle Larva
Community identification

Carpet Beetle Larva

Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family
Order: Coleoptera; Family: Dermestidae
Size
4mm to 5mm (0.16 to 0.20 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as dried food products and pet hair.

Behavior Patterns

The larval stage is the destructive phase; they are slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded areas where they can feed undisturbed.

Risks & Benefits

A common household pest that causes damage to textiles and dry goods; their hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some humans.