Household Casebearer Moth
Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella
Order & Family: Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), Tineidae (fungus moths and clothes moths)
Size: Larvae (in case) can range from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch (6-13 mm) in length. Adult moths have a wingspan of about 3/8 to 1/2 inch (10-13 mm).
Natural Habitat
Indoors, especially in areas with undisturbed natural fibers like carpets, rugs, closets with woolen items, attics, and underneath furniture. They prefer humid, dark environments.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae primarily feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, fur, felt, and sometimes synthetic blends. They can also consume spiderwebs, pet hair, and human hair.
Behavior Patterns
Larvae construct a case from silk and debris (such as lint, carpet fibers, and human hair) which they carry with them. They are slow-moving and retreat into their case when disturbed. Adults are winged moths but are generally poor flyers. They are often found in dark, undisturbed areas.
Risks & Benefits
Potential risks include damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and other items made of natural fibers. They do not pose direct health risks to humans (e.g., bites or stings). There are no known significant benefits to humans or the ecosystem, as they are considered pests.
Identified on: 8/29/2025