Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums, often in carpets, upholstery, and stored fabrics; also found outdoors on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae eat natural fibers such as wool, silk, feathers, and hair, as well as dead insects; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are scavenging pests that move slowly and avoid light, while adults are attracted to light and often found near windows.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include significant damage to household textiles, rugs, and preserved specimens; some people may experience allergic reactions or dermatitis from the larval hairs.

Identified on: 5/12/2026