Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, or on carpets. They thrive in environments with natural fibers like wool, fur, silk, and felt.

The larvae feed on keratin-rich materials including wool, fur, feathers, hair, upholstered furniture, and carpets. They generally ignore synthetic fibers or cotton unless stained with food or sweat.

Unlike other clothes moths, the larva carries a silken case around with it for protection, which it camouflages with fibers from the material it is eating. It can turn around inside the case to feed from either end. The larva eventually seals this case to pupate inside.

Risks: Significant pest of textiles. They can cause distinctive holes in expensive clothing, rugs, and upholstery. Benefits: None significant to humans; in nature, they play a minor role in breaking down animal detritus.