Varied carpet beetle

Homes, museums, nests, and other sheltered places containing natural fibers or animal remains.

Larvae consume wool, fur, feathers, silk, hair, and dried insects; adults mainly feed on pollen and nectar.

Adults are small, round, and mottled; larvae are hairy and avoid light. Females lay eggs near suitable fibers, and larvae may damage fabrics before pupating.

Larvae can damage clothing, carpets, upholstery, and stored specimens, while their hairs may irritate sensitive skin. Adults pollinate flowers and help recycle animal-derived materials.