Varied Carpet Beetle

Indoors mainly in carpets, clothes closets, and pantries; natural habitat includes bird nests and animal dens

Larvae feed on 'keratin' found in natural animal fibers (wool, fur, feathers, silk), dead insects, and dried food; adults feed on pollen and nectar

Adults are attracted to light and often found on windowsills; larvae avoid light and hide in dark crevices, deep carpet pile, or stored clothing

Significant household pest; larvae can cause extensive damage to carpets, clothing, and natural fabrics; can cause allergic dermatitis in sensitive individuals; beneficial in nature as scavengers