Bagworm Moth Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found on coniferous or deciduous trees and shrubs, but larvae can be seen crawling on walls, fences, or walkways when searching for a place to pupate.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae are generalist feeders on foliage, commonly attacking juniper, arborvitae, cedar, pine, and various broadleaf trees.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae construct a protective silk case covered with bits of plant material from the host tree. They carry this case with them as they move and feed, eventually attaching it to a substrate to pupate inside.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered a significant landscape pest; heavy infestations can completely defoliate and kill host plants, especially evergreen species. They offer little benefit to humans but are a food source for certain birds and parasitic wasps.

Identified on: 4/29/2026