Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors in homes, museums, and warehouses; outdoors on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, feathers, fur, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows. Larvae avoid light and prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under baseboards or in closets. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

They are a significant domestic pest, as larvae can damage clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Some people may experience allergic reactions (dermatitis) from contact with larval hairs. They do not bite or sting.

Identified on: 3/13/2026