
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae
- Size
- Case length is about 8-13 mm long
Natural Habitat
Typically found inside residential homes, attached to walls, under furniture, or on wool carpets. Common in warm, humid climates.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, hair, wool, silk, and other protein-rich natural fibers.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand, dust, and debris. It is open at both ends, allowing the larva to turn around and feed from either side. They undergo complete metamorphosis to become small moths.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or pets but are considered household pests because they can damage silk or wool clothing and rugs. They are also scavengers that help clean up spider webs.