Case-bearing Clothes Moth Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, basements, and under carpets. They thrive on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, and feathers.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin-rich animal fibers including wool clothing, carpets, obscure furs, upholstery, and occasionally stored grains or spices.

Behavior Patterns

Unlike the webbing clothes moth, this larva carries a silken case around with it (as seen in the image), which it camouflages with debris and fibers from its food source. It retreats inside this case when disturbed. It spins a cocoon inside the case to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

They pose no direct health risk to humans (they do not bite or sting), but they are significant pests that cause cosmetic and structural damage to clothing, rugs, and fabrics. They provide no significant ecological benefit in a household setting.

Identified on: 2/26/2026