Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Often found indoors in homes, specifically near wool carpets, stored clothing, or dried flower arrangements. In nature, they are found in bird nests or on flowers.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on pollen and nectar. The larvae are the household pests, feeding on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and dead insects.

Behavior Patterns

Adults are attracted to light and often found near windowsills. Larvae prefer dark, undisturbed areas like the backs of closets or under furniture.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (they do not bite), but the bristly hairs on the larvae can cause an allergic skin reaction in some people known as 'carpet beetle dermatitis'. They are significant pests that can damage fabrics and museum specimens.

Identified on: 3/4/2026