Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Indoor environments, particularly in areas where natural fibers, furs, feathers, or wool are stored. They prefer dark, undisturbed locations like closets or under furniture.

Keratin-based materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, hair, and leather. They may also consume synthetic fibers if they are soiled with food spills or sweat.

The larva constructs a protective, portable silken case incorporating fibers from the material it is feeding on. It stays inside the case, dragging it around as it feeds. Only the larvae cause damage; adults do not feed.

Risks include significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstery, and heirlooms made of natural animal fibers. They pose no direct health risk to humans. Benefits are negligible in indoor settings, though in nature they help decompose bird and mammal remains.