
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case is typically 8–13 mm long (larva is smaller inside).
Natural Habitat
Humid environments, often found on walls inside homes, garages, and under floorboards where moisture is present.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spiderwebs, wool, human hair, fur, and various natural fibers/debris found in household dust.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae construct a protective silk case covered in sand, dust, and fiber particles; they are active foragers that can poke their heads out of either end of the case to crawl.
Risks & Benefits
Generally considered a harmless household pest; they do not bite humans but can cause minor damage to wool fabrics or decorative items made of natural fibers.