Casemaking Clothes Moth larva

Natural Habitat

Dark, undisturbed areas in homes, such as closets, under furniture, or rugs, where there is a source of keratin-based material.

Diet & Feeding

Animal-based fibers containing keratin, including wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, hair, and sometimes leather.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae weave a portable silken case incorporating debris and fibers from their food source. They carry this case as they feed and eventually pupate inside it. Unlike webbing clothes moths, these larvae are active and can crawl significant distances.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant household pest that causes damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Benefits: Serves an ecological role outdoors as a scavenger of animal remains like fur and feathers.

Identified on: 3/23/2026