
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm (Case-bearing Moth Larva)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Larval case is typically 10-15 mm long.
Natural Habitat
Found inside houses, particularly on walls and under furniture in humid climates.
Diet & Feeding
Feeds on spiderwebs, wool, hair, and abandoned insect silk or cases.
Behavior Patterns
The larva lives inside a silken case covered in sand or debris; it can peek out from either end to move or feed.
Risks & Benefits
They are considered minor household pests that can damage natural fabrics but are otherwise harmless to humans.