Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Community identification

Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)

Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Case is approximately 8–13 mm long and 3–5 mm wide.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found inside buildings, specifically on walls and floors under furniture, where humidity is high and dust accumulates.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on spider webs, lint, wool, and natural silk. They are known scavengers of household debris.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a flattened, spindle-shaped protective case made of silk and debris. It can emerge from either end to feed or move. They undergo complete metamorphosis, turning into small, grayish moths.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered nuisance pests and can cause minor damage to natural fabrics like wool or silk. They do not pose direct health risks to humans but indicate the presence of high humidity or dust levels.