Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, feathers, hair, and dried organic materials.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are slow-moving and prefer dark, secluded areas where they can feed undisturbed.

Risks & Benefits

A significant household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery; larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions in some people.

Identified on: 3/19/2026