Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors, larvae are found in dark, undisturbed areas such as under carpets, in closets, chests, attics, and inside upholstered furniture. Outdoors, adults are common on flowering plants, especially those in the families Asteraceae and Apiaceae.

Diet & Feeding

Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar from outdoor flowers. Larvae are scavengers and feed on a variety of animal and plant products, including wool, silk, feathers, leather, furs, hair, dead insects, pet food, and natural fibers found in carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are often active during warmer months and can fly. Larvae prefer undisturbed, dark areas and are photophobic (avoid light). They undergo complete metamorphosis with four life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The larval stage is responsible for most of the damage to household items. Adults typically live a few weeks.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Varied carpet beetle larvae are common household pests that can cause significant damage to natural fibers, textiles, museum specimens, and stored dry goods. They can also exacerbate allergies in sensitive individuals due to their shed larval skins and fecal matter. They do not bite or sting humans. Benefits: In nature, they play a role as scavengers, breaking down organic matter.

Identified on: 8/13/2025