Larvae of the larder beetle, the black larder beetle and the hide beetle feed on animal products, including meats, cheeses, animal skins, feathers and horns. Black and varied carpet beetle larvae feed on fabrics containing wool and other animal hair in clothing, furniture and other household materials. Larvae are capable of digesting keratin, the protein in animal hair and feathers. The varied carpet beetle is often found in collections of dead, dried insects and other arthropods kept in unprotected, loosely-fitting, dark storage boxes. Adult carpet beetles can be found in the spring on flowers.
Adults often accumulate on window sills in infested buildings.
For additional information, contact your local Texas extension service agent, or search for other state extension service offices. Metcalf et al.