Clothing Moth Casemaking Larva (likely Plaster Bagworm or similar Case-bearing moth)
Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella (Plaster Bagworm) or Tinea pellionella (Case-bearing Clothes Moth)
Order & Family: Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size: Larval case is typically 6 mm to 14 mm (0.25 to 0.5 inches) long.
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in humid climates, often in closets, on wool clothing, carpets, or adhering to plaster walls and dusty corners.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on natural fibers (wool, silk, fur), spider webs, shed insect skins, human hair, and lint found in dust.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a distinctive flattened, protective case out of silk and debris (sand, fibers, dust) which it drags along with it. It can withdraw completely inside the case when threatened.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans (does not bite or sting), but is a household pest that can damage clothing, rugs, and fabrics made of natural fibers.
Identified on: 2/14/2026