The varied Carpet Beetle (Anthrenus Verbasci) is a 3mm long beetle. They are a common species, often considered a pest of domestic houses, and particularly, natural history museums where the larvae may damage natural fibers and can damage carpets, furniture, clothing, and insect collections.

The Carpet Beetle body is rounded, almost spherical. The body is covered in fine scales of different colors, creating an irregular pattern of white, brownish and yellowish patches. The larval of the Carpet Beetle, commonly known as Woolly Bears, measure up 4-5mm in length. The larvae are elongated and densely covered in large hairs. These hair are organised into alternating, transverse groups of light and dark brown patches; the larvae appears covered in brown stripes. The body is usually wider at the back than at the front.

A Carpet Beetle has a life cycle ranging from 1-3 years, depending upon the environmental conditions. Larvae hatch from eggs in the spring and early summer, often in the nests of birds or around stored fabrics. Adults emerge between late May and early August, flying to and deeding on the polled and nectar of flowering plants. 

Adults Carpet Beetles usually lay their eggs in air ducts, closets, under furniture or under baseboards. Once hatched and until they pupate into adults, the larvae hide in dark, undisturbed areas and feed on organic materials. The larvae are, therefore, responsible for the damage of various items, such as furniture, clothing, blankets, furs and carpets.