Carpet Beetle (appears to be a Varied Carpet Beetle or a similar species)

Natural Habitat

Indoors, larvae are found in carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, closets, attics, under baseboards, and in stored foods. Outdoors, adults are common on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide variety of animal products, including wool, silk, feathers, leather, fur, pet hair, dead insects, and dried animal specimens. They also infest dried plant material like spices, cereals, and nuts. Adult beetles primarily feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Carpet beetles often play dead when disturbed. Larvae are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas where their food sources are abundant. Adults are attracted to light and may be found near windows or lights. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to textiles (carpets, clothing, furniture), natural fibers, stored food products, and museum collections. Some people may experience allergic reactions to larval hairs. They are not known to bite humans or transmit diseases. Benefits include their role as scavengers in nature, breaking down organic matter.

Identified on: 8/20/2025