Varied Carpet Beetle

Indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses; outdoors on flowering plants.

Larvae eat natural fibers (wool, silk, fur) and dried organic matter; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Larvae are scavengers and avoid light; adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows during spring.

Significant household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery; hairs on larvae can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in humans.