Varied Carpet Beetle

Typically found indoors in homes (closets, attics, under rugs) and museums; outdoors in bird nests, wasp nests, and on flowering plants.

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dried insect specimens. Adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windowsills. The larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas where they can feed on organic material. They have a complete metamorphosis cycle.

Risks: Larvae can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, upholstery, and museum specimens. They can also cause skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) in some people. Benefits: They act as decomposers in nature.