Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Coleoptera; Dermestidae

Size: 1 to 5 mm in length

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry areas such as under baseboards, in closets, within carpet fibers, or in bird nests.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on organic materials including wool, fur, feathers, silk, dead insects, hair, and leather.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are avoidant of light (photophobic) and prefer dark, secluded spaces. They undergo a complete metamorphosis from egg to adult beetle.

Risks & Benefits

They are common household pests that can damage natural fabrics and stored goods. Their hair-like bristles (setae) can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 3/25/2026