Bug Identifier
Plaster Bagworm (Case-bearing Clothes Moth larva)
Community identification

Plaster Bagworm (Case-bearing Clothes Moth larva)

Phereoeca utericella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
8mm to 12mm (length of the case)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Commonly found inside households, particularly on walls in humid climates like the southeastern United States.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, human hair, and silk, as well as dead insects and organic debris.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand, dust, and lint; it can turn around inside the case to feed from either end.

Risks & Benefits

Primarily a household nuisance; they can cause minor damage to natural fabrics like wool or silk and are considered a pest.