Varied Carpet Beetle

Typically found indoors in homes, especially in carpets, closets, and darker areas; outdoors they inhabit bird nests and wasp nests.

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; Larvae feed on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried skin, dead insects, and pet hair.

Larvae are photophobic (avoid light) and wander in search of food; Adults are attracted to light and often found on windowsills. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks: Larvae are significant pests that cause damage to carpets, clothing, museum specimens, and upholstered furniture. 'Woolly bears' (larvae) can cause skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: In the wild, they help decompose dead animal matter.