Plaster Bagworm

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors on walls, especially in closets, under furniture, or near baseboards. In nature, they live on rocks or tree bark. They prefer high humidity climates like Florida and the Caribbean.

Diet & Feeding

Feeds on keratin and detritus, including spider webs, old insect skins, wool, animal dander, lint, and hair.

Behavior Patterns

The larva carries a protective case made of silk and debris (sand, soil, insect parts) which resembles a pumpkin seed or watermelon seed. They drag this case around with them and retreat inside when threatened.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans and pets (they do not bite or sting). However, they can be a minor nuisance pest in homes as they may feed on woolen fabrics or rugs, though they are less destructive than webbing clothes moths.

Identified on: 3/1/2026