
Community identification
Case-bearing clothes moth (larva)
Tinea pellionella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length: 8-10 mm; Larva: approx. 7 mm
Natural Habitat
Indoor environments, specifically within closets, drawers, and carpets where natural fibers are present.
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and lint; they do not eat synthetic fabrics.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silken case covered with debris and fiber. It drags this 'sleeping bag' with it as it feeds. Before pupation, they often crawl up walls or to protected crevices.
Risks & Benefits
Possess no health risk to humans or pets but are significant household pests that cause permanent damage to clothing, upholstery, and heirloom textiles.