Case-bearing Clothes Moth

Natural Habitat

Indoors, in closets, attics, storage areas, and undisturbed rooms where susceptible materials like woolens, furs, and stored textiles are present. They prefer dark, humid environments.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on materials of animal origin, particularly wool, fur, feathers, and silk. They can also feed on lint, dust, and synthetic fibers if they contain a mixture of animal fibers or food residues.

Behavior Patterns

Case-bearing clothes moths are typically found in dark, undisturbed areas. The larvae construct a silk case that they carry with them, incorporating fibers from their food source. They are resilient and can survive in a wide range of conditions. Adults are poor flyers and are more likely to be seen crawling or hopping.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Considered a significant household and museum pest due to their destructive feeding habits on natural fibers. They can cause considerable damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and museum specimens. Benefits: None known for humans; they play a minor role in decomposition of organic matter in natural settings.

Identified on: 8/10/2025