Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird nests, bee nests, and on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are scavengers that move slowly and avoid light. Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: Larvae are significant pests that can damage clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Larval hairs can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people. Benefit: In the wild, they help decompose organic animal matter.

Identified on: 4/15/2026