Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in darkened areas like closets, under furniture, or in storage bins containing natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich animal products including wool, fur, feathers, silk, hair, and occasionally leather or dried animal remains.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a protective silken case incorporating debris and fibers. It carries this case while feeding and eventually pupates inside it. They are negatively phototactic, meaning they avoid light.

Risks & Benefits

Risk: They are significant household pests that cause damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Benefit: In the wild, they act as recyclers by breaking down animal-based organic matter.

Identified on: 1/12/2026