Varied Carpet Beetle

Indoor environments such as homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors they are often found on flowering plants.

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; larvae feed on natural fibers, proteins, and dried animal products including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects.

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are more secretive, avoiding light and damaging household fabrics during their slow developmental period.

They do not bite or spread disease, but can cause significant damage to textiles and stored goods; larvae hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some individuals.