Varied Carpet Beetle

Often found in homes, particularly in carpets, closets, near baseboards, or under furniture. In nature, they are found in bird nests or on flowers.

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

Adults are often seen near windows trying to get outside to feed on pollen. The larvae (often called 'woolly bears') tend to hide in dark, secluded areas where they consume organic material.

Risks: The larvae are a significant household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, wool, and museum specimens. Some people may have allergic reactions to the larval hairs (dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of dead organic matter.