Clothing Moth Larva (likely Case-bearing Clothes Moth)

Natural Habitat

Found indoors, typically in dark closets, drawers, or storage areas containing natural fibers like wool, fur, or felt. They are also found in carpets and upholstered furniture.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, cashmere, mohair, fur, feathers, and felt. They will also eat accumulated human hair or pet dander.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a portable, flattened case out of silk and fibers from the material it is eating. It drags this case around for protection and eventually pupates inside it. Adults avoid light, while larvae graze on fabrics.

Risks & Benefits

Risks: Significant pest of textiles; larvae can cause expensive and irreparable damage to clothing, rugs, and furniture. Benefits: In nature, they help break down animal matter, but inside homes, they offer no benefit.

Identified on: 2/27/2026