Case-bearing Clothes Moth (or Plaster Bagworm)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in undisturbed areas where suitable food sources are present, such as closets, attics, storage areas, and museums. They prefer dark, humid environments. They can also sometimes be found on walls, feeding on mold, mildew, or spiderwebs, which is why they are also called plaster bagworms.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of natural fibers, including wool, silk, fur, feathers, felt, and sometimes synthetic blends or even insect specimens. They can also feed on keratin-containing materials such as hair and skin flakes. The debris coating their cases indicates their diet.

Behavior Patterns

Case-bearing insects live within a small, silken case covered with debris, which they carry with them. They are generally slow-moving. The larvae cause damage by feeding on natural fibers, creating irregular holes. Adults are typically poor flyers and are more active at night.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to textiles, clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and other natural fiber products. They are considered household pests and can cause economic losses. There are no known benefits.

Identified on: 8/28/2025