Bug Identifier
Plaster Bagworm
Community identification

Plaster Bagworm

Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera, Tineidae
Size
Case: 8 to 14 mm in length; Larva: up to 10 mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Humid indoor environments, often found on walls, under furniture, or in closets

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, wool, human hair, and silk fibers

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a silken case covered in sand or dust and drags it along while feeding; it can move from both ends of the spindle-shaped case

Risks & Benefits

A nuisance pest in homes that can damage fabrics made of natural fibers; poses no direct health risk to humans