Community identification
Plaster Bagworm (Household Casebearer)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length: 8–14 mm; Larva: 5–8 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoors in humid environments, typically found on walls or floors of houses
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, and natural silk fibers
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a flat, spindle-shaped case made of silk and debris (dust, sand, hair). It can poke its head out of either end of the case to move or feed.
Risks & Benefits
Non-toxic and does not bite; considered a household nuisance as it can occasionally damage clothing or fabrics made of natural fibers.