Varied Carpet Beetle

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, as well as outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Larvae scavenge on dry animal and plant products like wool, silk, feathers, cereals, and pet food; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas and can spend up to two years in the larval stage; adults are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Major household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery; larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.