Varied Carpet Beetle

Found indoors in homes, warehouses, and museums; outdoors in bird nests and on pollen-producing flowers.

Larvae scavenge on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur, feathers), dried food products, and dead insects. Adults feed on flower pollen and nectar.

Adults are attracted to light and are often found near windows. Larvae are shy and avoid light, typically hiding in dark crevices or under carpets during their growth phase.

Significant household pest that can damage carpets, clothing, and upholstery. Larval hairs can cause allergic reactions ('carpet beetle dermatitis') in sensitive individuals. They lack benefits to humans and cause economic damage.