Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors within homes, specifically in carpets, upholstery, closets, and air ducts; outdoors in gardens on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae eat natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), shed hair, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and are often found on windowsills. Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas. They undergo complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

They are a significant household pest that can damage clothing, blankets, and rugs. The larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. They do not bite humans.

Identified on: 2/17/2026