Household Casebearer

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera (Order), Tineidae (Family)

Size: Case length is typically 8–15 mm

Household Casebearer

Natural Habitat

Commonly found in humid, tropical, or subtropical environments inside houses, garages, or on walls.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on fibers such as wool, silk, hair, and biological debris like spider webs or discarded insect parts.

Behavior Patterns

The caterpillar constructs a silk-lined, spindle-shaped case covered in sand or dust for camouflage. It remains inside the case, dragging it along as it feeds, and can emerge from either end to change direction.

Risks & Benefits

Often considered a nuisance pest as it may damage fine fabrics or upholstery; however, they pose no direct physical risk to humans or pets.

Identified on: 12/27/2025