Household Casebearer (Case-bearing Clothes Moth larva)
Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella
Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size: Case length 8-14mm; larva inside is smaller.
Natural Habitat
Indoors, commonly found in humid areas like bathrooms or kitchens, attached to walls or furniture.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on natural fibers, wool, hair, cobwebs, and dead insects.
Behavior Patterns
The larva builds a protective silken 'case' reinforced with sand and debris. It moves by extending its head and front legs from the case and dragging it along.
Risks & Benefits
Potential pest for textiles and clothing; however, they are primarily harmless to humans and are not venomous.
Identified on: 6/30/2026