Case-bearing Clothes Moth Larva

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, carpet edges, beneath furniture, and storage boxes. They prefer moderate humidity.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin-rich natural fibers. This includes wool (carpets, clothing, blankets), fur, silk, feathers, felt, and sometimes pet hair or lint.

Behavior Patterns

The most vital characteristic is that the larva carries a silken case around with it (as seen in the image). The case is camouflaged with fibers from the material it is eating. They feed from inside this mobile shelter and will travel across surfaces like carpets or walls to pupate.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Highly destructive pest to household textiles, particularly expensive wool rugs and clothing. They do not bite or carry diseases to humans. Benefits: In nature, they act as decomposers of animal hair and feathers, but they offer no significant benefit inside a home.

Identified on: 3/7/2026