Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella (or related species like Phereoeca allutella)

Order & Family: Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae

Size: Case is typically 8-13 mm (0.3-0.5 inches) long.

Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm

Natural Habitat

Commonly found inside homes in humid climates, often on walls, under furniture, in closets, or attached to stucco/plaster surfaces. They thrive in high humidity.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, old insect cocoons, wool, human hair, shedding pet dander, and other detritus found in dusty corners.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a flattened, pumpkin-seed-shaped protective case out of silk and debris (sand, soil, droppings) which it carries around. It can extend its head and legs from either end of the case to move. They often climb walls, pulling their case behind them.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Generally considered a nuisance rather than a major pest. They do not bite or sting humans, but can damage wool or natural fibers if populations are large. Benefits: They clean up minor organic debris.

Identified on: 2/25/2026