Household Casebearer moth

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae

Size: Case length is about 8 to 13 mm.

Household Casebearer moth

Natural Habitat

Typically found inside houses and buildings, especially in dark, undisturbed areas like closets or under furniture.

Diet & Feeding

As larvae, they feed on spider webs, wool, human hair, fur, and silk.

Behavior Patterns

The larva lives in a flat, spindle-shaped case made of silk and covered with sand, dust, and other debris. It can pull its head and legs into the case for protection.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a pest as they can damage clothing and other natural fabrics, but they do not pose a direct health risk to humans.

Identified on: 5/25/2026