Bug Identifier
Casemaking Clothes Moth (larval case)
Community identification

Casemaking Clothes Moth (larval case)

Tineola bisselliella / Tinea pellionella

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Case length: 6mm - 10mm (1/4 to 3/8 inch)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Dark, undisturbed indoor areas such as closets, drawers, attics, and behind baseboards.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae spin a protective silken tube or 'case' that they carry with them while feeding. They are photophobic and prefer dark environments.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Destructive household pest that causes physical damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. Benefits: No direct benefit to humans; in the wild, they help decompose animal remains like feathers and fur.