Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under baseboards or in closets.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, hair, feathers, and dried protein-based animal products; adults feed on pollen/nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are scavengers that undergo complex metamorphosis and avoid light.

Risks & Benefits

Can be a serious household pest by damaging fabrics, carpets, and upholstery; hairs on larvae can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in humans.

Identified on: 5/1/2026