Carpet Beetle Larva

Scientific Name: Anthrenus verbasci

Order & Family: Coleoptera: Dermestidae

Size: 4 mm to 5 mm (roughly 1/8 to 1/4 inch) in length.

Carpet Beetle Larva

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, specifically in dark, undisturbed areas like under baseboards, in closets, or within upholstery and carpets.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on organic materials such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, silk, dead insects, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Slow-moving, bristly larvae that undergo several molts; they are nocturnal and tend to hide in crevices. They can survive for long periods without food.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest capable of damaging natural fabrics and stored goods. Their barbed hairs can cause 'carpet beetle dermatitis' (skin irritation or allergic reactions) in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 6/6/2026