
Community identification
Webbing Clothes Moth
Tineola bisselliella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Adults have a 12-16 mm wingspan; larvae are approximately 10-12 mm long.
Natural Habitat
Found globally in homes, specifically in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, attics, and storage chests.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on animal-derived fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as lint and dust containing hair.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae spin silken tubes or mats to hide while feeding. Adults are photophobic (avoid light) and are weak fliers that prefer to crawl in shadows.
Risks & Benefits
No health risk to humans; however, they are significant pests that cause permanent structural damage to clothing, upholstery, and rugs.