Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva/Case)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, quiet areas like closets, drawers, and under carpets; they thrive on natural fibers like wool, silk, fur, feathers, and carpets.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratin-rich animal fibers including wool clothing, carpets, rugs, upholstery, furs, and taxidermy specimens. They may also eat stored grains or spices.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a flattened, pumpkin-seed-shaped protective case out of silk and fiber debris which it carries around at all times. It can turn around inside the case to feed from either end. They avoid light and are most active in dark, undisturbed locations.

Risks & Benefits

They are a household pest that causes significant damage to textiles, specifically holes in expensive woolen or silk garments and rugs. They do not bite or sting humans and carry no known diseases, but their presence indicates an infestation that can be costly to personal property.

Identified on: 3/3/2026