Varied Carpet Beetle

Indoors, they are commonly found in closets, under furniture, in carpets, and near windowsills. Outdoors, they inhabit bird nests and feed on flowers.

Larvae (the damaging stage) feed on keratin-based natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and dead skin. Adults feed primarily on pollen and nectar.

Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas and move slowly. Adults are attracted to light and are often seen trying to exit through windows. They undergo uncertain metamorphosis from egg to larva to pupa to adult.

Risks: The larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, rugs, and upholstery. Their bristles can also cause an allergic skin reaction known as 'carpet beetle dermatitis.' Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers scavenging dead animal matter.