Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes (closets, drawers, carpets) and outdoors near flowering plants. They thrive in dark, undisturbed areas where organic fibers gather, such as under furniture and in wool clothing.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers and protein-based materials like wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dead insects. Adult beetles generally feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often fly toward windows. The destructive phase is the larval stage (tiny, hairy 'woolly bears') which hides in dark crevices and consumes fabric.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include significant damage to textiles, carpets, taxidermy, and clothing made of natural fibers. The larvae possess bristle-like hairs that can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. They do not bite or sting but are considered household pests.

Identified on: 2/9/2026