Bug Identifier
Webbing clothes moth (larvae/cases)
Community identification

Webbing clothes moth (larvae/cases)

Tineola bisselliella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
Larvae grow to approximately 10-12 mm in length; adults have a wingspan of 12-16 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Dark, undisturbed areas within homes, such as closets, chests, and storage areas where natural fibers are kept.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratins found in natural animal fibers including wool, silk, hair, fur, feathers, and leather.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae often spin silken tunnels or patches as they feed. Unlike many moths, adults are sensitive to light and prefer crawling to flying.

Risks & Benefits

Significant risk as a domestic pest that destroys clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They provide no direct benefit to the household ecosystem but help decompose animal remains in nature.