Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, often near windows; outdoors they live in bird or social insect nests and on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae scavenge on dry animal proteins (wool, silk, feathers, hair, dead insects). Adults feed on pollen and nectar from flowers.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are light-avoiding and hide in dark crevices or textiles. Adults are attracted to light and often cluster on windowsills during the spring as they try to move outdoors to mate.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest; the larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and upholstered furniture. Their bristly hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.

Identified on: 3/30/2026