Varied Carpet Beetle

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

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

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: 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.