Varied Carpet Beetle

Often found indoors in homes, specifically near natural fibers (carpets, wool, leather) and outdoors on flowers.

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

Adults are often seen near windows trying to get outside; larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like under furniture or in closets.

Larvae are a household pest that can damage clothing, carpets, and stored goods; the bristly hairs of larvae can cause skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals. They do not bite or sting.