Bug Identifier
Bagworm Moth Larva (or House Bagworm Case)
Community identification

Bagworm Moth Larva (or House Bagworm Case)

Phereoeca uterella (or related species in Tineidae)

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
8 to 13 mm (0.3 to 0.5 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in damp, humid environments like bathrooms, closets, underneath furniture, and in garages. Outdoors, they are found on tree trunks or fences.

Diet & Feeding

Feed on spider webs, old silk/cocoons, wool, human hair, and other detritus found in corners or under furniture.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a distinctive flat, pumpkin-seed-shaped protective case out of silk and debris (sand, soil, fibers) which it carries around. It lives inside this case, poking its head out to drag it along surfaces. It camouflages well as a piece of dirt or lint.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans (does not bite or sting). Can be considered a minor household pest if present in large numbers, as they may eat silk or wool fabrics, but they rarely cause significant damage.