Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry areas like carpets, closets, and air ducts. Outdoors, they are found on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, feathers, hair, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. They undergo a complete metamorphosis with the larval stage being the most destructive to household items.

Risks & Benefits

Larvae are common household pests that damage fabrics and upholstery; some people may have allergic reactions to larval hairs. They provide an ecosystem benefit by breaking down organic debris outdoors.

Identified on: 3/26/2026