Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses where natural fibers are stored; outdoors found in bird nests or on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found on windowsills; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or in attic insulation.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and museum specimens. Benefit: In nature, they act as decomposers/scavengers.

Identified on: 2/13/2026