Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)
Community identification

Household Casebearer (Plaster Bagworm)

Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size
8 to 13 mm (0.3 to 0.5 inches)
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, found on walls or floors in humid rooms such as bathrooms or kitchens

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on spider webs, wool fibers, hair, and human hair/skin debris

Behavior Patterns

Larvae construct a silk case reinforced with sand, dust, and lint which they carry for protection while moving and feeding

Risks & Benefits

Generally harmless to humans but can damage delicate fabrics and are considered a household nuisance