Varied carpet beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird nests or on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dried protein; adults primarily feed on pollen and nectar.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are scavengers and often move slowly while searching for food sources in dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are attracted to light and are often seen near windows during their spring mating season.

Risks & Benefits

They are a significant household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery. While they do not bite humans, larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions or respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals.

Identified on: 4/29/2026