Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

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

Diet & Feeding

Larvae eat natural fibers (wool, silk, fur), feathers, and stored grains; adults feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are scavengers that prefer dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are active during the day and attracted to light. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

Significant pests of textiles, museum collections, and dried foods. Larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions (dermatitis) in some humans. No distinct benefits to human dwellings.

Identified on: 12/31/2025