Varied Carpet Beetle

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in nests of birds, bees, or wasps and on flowering plants.

Diet & Feeding

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

Behavior Patterns

Larvae are the primary scavengers and damage-makers, often hiding in dark, undisturbed areas. Adults are attracted to light and often found near windows during spring.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pest that damages carpets, clothing, and blankets. Larval hairs can cause allergic skin reactions (dermatitis). Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers by recycling keratin and chitin.

Identified on: 1/9/2026