Casemaking Clothes Moth (Larva)

Scientific Name: Tinea pellionella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera, Tineidae

Size: Larvae are typically 6-11 mm long including the case.

Casemaking Clothes Moth (Larva)

Natural Habitat

Dark, undisturbed areas within homes such as closets, under heavy furniture, or inside storage trunks.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on animal-based fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating debris and fibers from its food source. It carries this case as it moves and feeds, eventually pupating within it.

Risks & Benefits

They are domestic pests that can cause significant damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They pose no direct health risk to humans but can be a major economic nuisance.

Identified on: 1/8/2026