
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case is approximately 8-15 mm long
Natural Habitat
Typically found inside buildings, especially on walls or floors in humid climates.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, human hair, fur, and silk.
Behavior Patterns
The larva builds a flattened, spindle-shaped case from silk and debris (like sand or lint) and carries it while moving; it can emerge from either end of the case.
Risks & Benefits
Considered a household pest as they can damage natural fiber fabrics or carpets, though they pose no direct health risk to humans.