Case-bearing Cloth Moth

Natural Habitat

Case-bearing cloth moths are commonly found indoors, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas where natural fibers are stored. This includes closets, attics, storage chests, and behind furniture. They are often associated with carpets, rugs, upholstered furniture, clothing, and stored textiles made of animal products.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae of case-bearing cloth moths are detritivores, primarily feeding on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, feathers, and other animal products like lint, dust, and pet hair. They can also feed on blended fabrics if they contain some natural fibers. Adult moths do not feed.

Behavior Patterns

Case-bearing cloth moths are known for their larvae, which construct and carry a silken case, often camouflaged with bits of fiber, lint, or debris from their environment. The larvae remain inside this case, enlarging it as they grow, and only protrude their head and legs to move and feed. Adults are nocturnal, weak fliers, and are often attracted to lights. They do not feed and live only to reproduce.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to natural fiber textiles, clothing, carpets, and upholstered furniture. They can destroy valuable items, leading to economic loss. From an ecological perspective, they are decomposers of natural fibers, but their indoor presence is primarily considered a pest. They pose no direct health risk to humans (e.g., bites or stings).

Identified on: 8/17/2025