Carpet Beetle (likely Varied Carpet Beetle)

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in carpets, closets, pantries, and near windowsills; outdoors found on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar; Larvae feed on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried food products.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. The larvae are hidden feeders that prefer dark, undisturbed areas where they consume organic materials.

Risks & Benefits

Larvae are pests that can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and museum specimens. They do not bite or sting but their hairs can cause allergic dermatitis in some people.

Identified on: 3/2/2026