Carpet Beetle (specifically likely the Varied Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums where fabrics are stored. In nature, adults are found on flowers, while larvae inhabit bird nests or animal dens.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, dead insects, and dried leather. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar outdoors.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windowsills. The destructive stage is the larva, which prefers dark, undisturbed areas (like backs of closets, under rugs) to feed on keratin-rich materials. They have a complete metamorphosis life cycle.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: The larvae are significant household pests that damage carpets, clothing, blankets, and natural fiber furniture. The tiny hairs on larvae can cause allergic dermatitis (carpet beetle dermatitis) in some humans. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers by breaking down dead animal matter.

Identified on: 2/20/2026