Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, quiet areas like closets, underneath furniture, near baseboards, or stored natural fabrics (wool, carpets, furs).

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin-containing animal fibers such as wool, fur, silk, feathers, felt, and leather. They may also eat cotton or linen if soiled with food stains or sweat.

Behavior Patterns

The larva spins a protective, flatten, tube-like case made of silk and fibers from the material it is eating. It carries this case around with it as it moves, retreating inside when threatened. They eventually pupate inside this case.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: They are a significant household pest that causes damage to clothing, carpets, rugs, and upholstery. They do not bite or sting humans and carry no known diseases, but their destruction of fabrics is costly. There are no ecological benefits in a household setting.

Identified on: 2/14/2026