Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle or Black Carpet Beetle)
Scientific Name: Family Dermestidae (e.g., Anthrenus verbasci or Attagenus unicolor)
Order & Family: Order: Coleoptera, Family: Dermestidae
Size: Adults: 2-5 mm; Larvae: up to 5 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoors: carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, stored foods, museums, and anywhere natural fibers are present. Outdoors: flowering plants.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, and dried animal products. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Carpet beetle larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas, feeding on keratin-containing materials. Adults are attracted to light and flowers outdoors.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Can cause damage to natural fiber goods in homes and museums. Some people may experience allergic reactions to larval hairs. Benefits: In nature, they act as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.
Identified on: 8/18/2025