Bug Identifier
Webbing Clothes Moth
Community identification

Webbing Clothes Moth

Tineola bisselliella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
Wingspan of 9 to 16 mm; body length typically 5 to 8 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and drawers; rarely found outdoors except in bird or mammal nests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal-based fibers containing keratin, such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather. Adults do not eat.

Behavior Patterns

Avoids light and prefers dark crevices. The larvae spin silken tunnels or patches while feeding. They undergo a complete metamorphosis with a life cycle lasting 65 to 90 days depending on temperature.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Major household pest that destroys clothing, carpets, and upholstery. Benefits: In nature, they help break down animal carcasses and debris through keratin consumption.