Anthrenus pimpinellae
Measuring 2 to 4 mm only, Anthrenus pimpinellae is among the smallest animals our camera can handle. The adult beetles are often seen on flowers, where they feed on nectar and pollen. They are short-lived and mainly appear in May and June. The larvae are specialized in eating bird's feathers. They are among the few animals capable of digesting ceratin. The larvae are usually found in the nests of House Sparrows. And as these nests are under the roofs of houses, they may get inside the house. There they may also feed on ceratin in hairs, nails and skin flakes. Sometimes they become a pest indoors feeding on wool clothes or carpets. Anthrenus pimpinellae is a common species in Europe and Asia. Has been introduced in Northern America.
