Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in dark areas like closets, carpets, and beneath furniture where natural fibers (wool, silk, fur) or stored foods are present.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratin-rich materials such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, and sometimes stored grains. They do not feed on synthetic fabrics unless soiled with food stains or oils.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a portable, silken case around itself, often incorporating fibers from the material it is eating, which helps camouflage it. It drags this case along as it moves and feeds.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant pest of textiles; larvae can cause extensive damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and tapestries. Benefits: In nature, they help decompose animal matter (like feathers and fur), but they are strictly considered pests in human dwellings.

Identified on: 2/18/2026