Case-bearing Clothes Moth (larva)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or in carpets where natural fibers (wool, fur, silk) are present.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratin-rich animal fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, and sometimes hair or pet dander.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a portable, silken tube-like case around itself using fibers from the material it is eating. It drags this case around as it moves and feeds. It will eventually seal the case to pupate inside.

Risks & Benefits

Considered a household pest because the larvae can cause significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and tapestries made of natural fibers. They do not bite or sting humans and pose no direct health risk.

Identified on: 2/10/2026