Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, as well as outdoors in bird nests and on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair, as well as dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult); larvae are often found in dark, undisturbed areas like under baseboards or in closets, while adults are attracted to light.

Risks & Benefits

Can cause significant damage to household fabrics, carpets, and stored natural materials; their larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.

Identified on: 6/6/2026