Varied Carpet Beetle

Indoor environments like homes, museums, and warehouses; outdoors on flowering plants

Larvae eat natural fibers including wool, silk, feathers, and dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas and can remain in the larval stage for up to 2 years; adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows

Larvae are common household pests that damage textiles and organic materials; some people may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions to larval hairs