Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer
Community identification

Household Casebearer

Phereoeca utericella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
Case length is typically 8-14 mm; larvae are smaller.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoors within residential or commercial buildings, often found on walls or under furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, silk, hair, and other natural keratin-containing fibers.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand or dust and drags it along as it moves. They undergo complete metamorphosis with a pupal stage spent inside the case.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but can be a minor household pest as they may damage silk or wool fabrics.