Community identification
Carpet Beetle (Larva or Adult)
Anthrenus verbasci (Varied Carpet Beetle) or Attagenus unicolor (Black Carpet Beetle)
- Order & Family
- Coleoptera; Dermestidae
- Size
- 2-5 mm (Adults); Larvae can differ slightly in size but are generally small.
Natural Habitat
Found indoors in carpets, closets, pantries, and near baseboards; outdoors in bird nests and on flowers.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and hide in dark crevices; adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows.
Risks & Benefits
Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery; hairs on larvae can cause skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of animal matter.