Species category: Beetles & Weevils

Scientific name: Anthrenos Verbasci

Family: Dermestidae (skin feeders)

All carpet beetles are between 2-4mm long with the exception of the Fur Beetle which is 4.5-6mm long. The Varied Carpet Beetle is brown or black and mottled with yellow or white scales. The Fur Beetle is black and covered in white hairs.

The varied carpet beetle is indigenous to Europe and in England. The furniture carpet beetle is of a subtropical origin and cold sensitive.

Warm, dry conditions are ideal for Carpet Beetles’ development but they can survive in foodstuffs with very low moisture content. The Museum beetle is often found in museums where it is a particular pest of dried specimens. The Fur Beetle may be found in fur, skins, textiles and grain. Adult carpet beetles are found outdoors and live off pollen and nectar.

Pests of animal products and occasionally food products of plant origin, Carpet Beetles are major textile pests. They thrive in situations where they remain undisturbed, e.g. beneath carpets and around skirting boards.

Larvae cause considerable damage to keratin-containing products such as wool, fur and leather. Occasionally food products of plant origin can be attacked.

Damage takes the form of clean irregular holes in textiles. There’s no webbing or excrement present, so by the time larvae are observed, considerable damage has often occurred. Carpet beetles are not a health hazard but are potential vectors of anthrax.