Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm
Community identification

Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm

Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Larval case is approximately 8 to 13 mm (0.3 to 0.5 inches) long.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in warm, humid climates, especially inside bathrooms, garages, and on stucco or plaster walls, and underneath furniture.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on spider webs, old silk/cocoons, wool, hair, and other keratin-containing debris found in dust.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a silken case, which it covers with debris like sand, dust, and insect parts for camouflage. It drags this protective case around with it as it moves and feeds, eventually pupating inside it.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (does not bite or sting). Considered a minor household pest because they can damage natural fibers like wool or silk, but they also eat spider webs.