Varied Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or within wall voids. They are cosmopolitan pests found worldwide.

Larvae scavenge on protein-rich animal fibers and natural materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, leather, and dried insect specimens. Adults primarily feed on flower pollen and nectar.

Larvae are slow-moving and avoid light (photophobic), often shedding 'bristly' skins as they grow. They spend 220 to 630 days in the larval stage before pupating. Adults are often seen on windowsills in spring as they try to move outdoors to feed and mate.

Risks include significant damage to household fabrics, carpets, clothing, and taxidermy. The hairs on the larvae (hastisetae) can cause respiratory irritation or allergic skin reactions (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. They provide no direct benefits to modern indoor environments.