
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm (or Case-bearing Moth)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order Lepidoptera, Family Tineidae
- Size
- 8 to 13 mm (larval case length)
Natural Habitat
Commonly found inside residential homes, attached to walls, under furniture, or on rug fibers in humid climates.
Diet & Feeding
The larvae feed on spider webs, wool, human hair, silk, and shed skin cells.
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.
Risks & Benefits
A household pest that can damage woolen clothing or rugs; they are harmless to humans but may indicate local moisture or humidity issues.