Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Often found indoors in closets, carpets, drawers, and attics where natural fibers are stored. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural animal fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects. Adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are often seen near windows trying to get outside to feed on pollen. The larvae are secretive, preferring dark, undisturbed areas where they can chew on fabric. They undergo complete metamorphosis.

Risks & Benefits

They do not bite humans or spread disease, but the larvae are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to carpets, clothing, and taxidermy. The hairs on the larvae can cause skin irritation (carpet beetle dermatitis) in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 3/3/2026