Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer (often referred to as Plaster Bagworm or Case-bearing Clothes Moth)
Community identification

Household Casebearer (often referred to as Plaster Bagworm or Case-bearing Clothes Moth)

Phereoeca uterella (or potentially Tinea pellionella depending on region)

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Usually between 0.25 to 0.5 inches (6-13 mm) in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dry, dusty areas such as garages, closets, under furniture, or on carpets and rugs, particularly in humid climates like Florida.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin and detritus, including wool, hair, lint, spider webs, and insect casings.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a silken case, often shaped like a pumpkin seed or teardrop, covered with debris like sand or fibers for camouflage. The larva drags this case around as it moves and can retreat inside if threatened.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a pest. They are harmless to humans (they do not bite or sting) but can damage fabrics, clothing, and rugs made of natural fibers.