Household Casebearer

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera (moths), Tineidae (clothes moths and their relatives)

Size: Larvae are typically 10-15 mm long. Adult moths have a wingspan of about 10-14 mm.

Household Casebearer

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in undisturbed areas such as closets, attics, basements, or garages. They prefer dark, humid environments but can adapt to various indoor conditions. Rarely found outdoors.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a variety of materials including wool, felt, furs, silk, hair, lint, and sometimes on spiderwebs, old insect specimens, and other organic debris. They are known to graze on molds and fungi if available.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae develop in cases made of silk and debris, which they carry for protection. The cases are often very small and blend in with their surroundings. Adults are typically nocturnal and attracted to light. Larvae move slowly, dragging their cases along surfaces.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and other fabric items. They are considered a minor household pest. No known benefits, as they are primarily associated with destructive indoor feeding.

Identified on: 9/4/2025