Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Community identification

Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)

Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Case length is about 8 to 14 mm; the larva inside is smaller.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found inside houses, building walls, and high humidity areas where silk-spun cases can hang.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed primarily on spider webs, wool, and natural fibers like silk or hair.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae live inside a flattened, diamond-shaped silk case covered in sand and dust; they can protrude their heads from either end to move or feed.

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but can be a minor nuisance pest by damaging natural fiber clothes or household fabrics.