Carpet beetle (likely varied carpet beetle)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, especially in undisturbed areas like under furniture, rugs, carpets, closets, and attics. They feed on natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae feed on natural animal products such as wool, fur, feathers, silk, dead insects, and dried animal skins.

Behavior Patterns

Adult carpet beetles are often found near windows as they are attracted to light. Larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where they can feed on organic materials. They are known for their slow-moving, bristly, and often striped larval stage. Molted larval skins and fecal pellets can be indicators of an infestation.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Can cause significant damage to household items made of wool, fur, leather, and other natural fibers, including carpets, clothing, and upholstery. They are considered household pests. Benefits: In nature, they play a role in decomposition, cleaning up animal carcasses and detritus. No direct health risks to humans, but their bristles can cause skin irritation in some sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 9/24/2025