Household Casebearer (often the larva of the Phereoeca uterella or Tinea pellionella)
Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella (Plaster Bagworm) or Tinea pellionella (Case-bearing Clothes Moth)
Order & Family: Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size: Larval case length is typically 8 mm to 14 mm.
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in dry, low-light areas such as closets, under furniture, on carpets, and in garages. They are common in warm, humid climates.
Diet & Feeding
The larvae feed on keratin-rich materials such as wool, silk, fur, hair, and dead insects, as well as spider webs and drier lint.
Behavior Patterns
The larva builds a flattened, pumpkin-seed-shaped portable case out of silk and debris (sand, soil, fibers) which it carries around for protection. It emerges from one end to pull itself along and can turn around inside the case to exit the other end.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans (they do not bite or sting), but they can be a household pest. They may damage woolen clothing, carpets, and rugs if left unchecked, though damage is often less severe than other clothes moths.
Identified on: 2/24/2026