Household Casebearer (often referred to as Plaster Bagworm or Case-bearing Clothes Moth)
Scientific Name: 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.
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.
Identified on: 2/15/2026