
Community identification
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length is approximately 8 to 13 mm (0.3 to 0.5 inches).
Natural Habitat
Typically found inside residential buildings on walls and underneath furniture. They prefer humid climates and are often found in bathrooms, kitchens, or garages.
Diet & Feeding
The larvae feed on spider webs, wool, hair, silk, and other natural fibers or debris found in homes.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case covered in sand, dust, and debris. It is open at both ends, allowing the larva to move and feed in either direction. The larva drags the case along as it moves.
Risks & Benefits
They do not bite humans or transmit diseases. However, they are considered household pests because they can damage silk or wool rugs and clothing, and their presence may indicate high indoor humidity or the presence of many spiders (webs).