Case-bearing clothes moth (larva)

Natural Habitat

Widely distributed worldwide; commonly found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or in storage bins where natural fibers are kept.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratins found in natural animal fibers such as wool, fur, hair, feathers, silk, and felt. They occasionally eat synthetic fabrics blended with natural fibers.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating fibers from its food source, which it drags along as it moves. They prefer dark environments and avoid light. They undergo complete metamorphosis (egg, larva, pupa, adult).

Risks & Benefits

No health risk to humans as they do not bite or sting. They are significant household pests that cause damage to clothing, carpets, and upholstery by chewing irregular holes. In the ecosystem, they help recycle keratin.

Identified on: 3/17/2026