Bagworm Moth Larva

Natural Habitat

Widely distributed in trees and shrubs, including evergreens like juniper and arborvitae, as well as deciduous trees.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae are generalist feeders that consume foliage from over 128 different plant species, often causing significant defoliation.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae construct a protective silk case covered with bits of leaves and twigs from their host plant. They carry this case with them as they feed and eventually pupate inside it.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered a significant landscape pest as they can defoliate and kill host trees if populations are high. They benefit the ecosystem by serving as a food source for birds and parasitic wasps.

Identified on: 6/10/2026