Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Natural Habitat

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.

Diet & Feeding

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.

Behavior Patterns

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 & Benefits

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.

Identified on: 2/27/2026