Varied Carpet Beetle

Indoors, they are commonly found in homes, museums, and warehouses inhabiting carpets, closets, and air ducts. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and bee hives.

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers (wool, fur, silk, feathers), dead insects, and dried plant products. Adults feed primarily on pollen and nectar.

Adults are active flyers attracted to light and are often found near windowsills. The larvae prefer dark, undisturbed places (like under furniture) and are known for their 'woolly bear' appearance before pupating.

Risks: Major household pest that damages clothing, carpets, and stored fabrics; larval hairs can cause allergic skin dermatitis in humans. Benefits: In the wild, they act as decomposers by breaking down animal matter.