Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses, especially in undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and under furniture. Outdoors, adults are found on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products and natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, dried meat, dried insects, and museum specimens. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetles often play dead when disturbed. Their larvae are active and seek out food sources, preferring dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are typically found near windows as they are attracted to light.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items, clothing, carpets, and museum collections made of natural fibers. They do not bite humans but can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis) in some individuals due to contact with larval hairs. Benefits: In natural environments, they play a role in decomposition, breaking down animal carcasses and organic matter.

Identified on: 8/31/2025