Varied Carpet Beetle (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments such as homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird or rodent nests.

Diet & Feeding

Scavengers that feed on natural animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are avoidant of light and prefer dark, secluded areas like under baseboards or in closets. They undergo a long larval stage lasting several months to a year.

Risks & Benefits

Major household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery. Larval hairs can cause allergic reactions (dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. They provide a benefit in nature by recycling organic matter.

Identified on: 12/28/2025