Case-bearing Clothes Moth (specimen likely a larva inside its case)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, drawers, carpets, and storage boxes where natural fibers are present.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, and leather. They will also eat accumulated dust and hair.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a silken case around itself, often incorporating debris and fibers from the material it is eating. It drags this case along as it moves and feeds. When ready to pupate, it seals the case.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a household pest. Risks include significant damage to clothes, rugs, upholstery, and tapestries made of natural fibers. They do not bite or sting humans and pose no direct health threat, but are destructive to property.

Identified on: 2/28/2026