Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in carpets, upholstery, and stored fabrics, or outdoors on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows; larvae are avoidant of light and can remain in the larval stage for months while damaging materials.

Risks & Benefits

A significant household pest that can damage textiles and preserves; larval hairs may cause allergic reactions or skin irritation in some humans.

Identified on: 5/15/2026