Case-bearing Clothes Moth Larva
Scientific Name: Tinea pellionella
Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae
Size: 8 to 10 mm in length
Natural Habitat
Dark, undisturbed areas within homes, closets, and storage containers
Diet & Feeding
Keratin-rich materials including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and hair
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silken case or 'bag' covered with fibers from its food source, which it carries while moving and feeding.
Risks & Benefits
A significant household pest that causes damage to textiles and clothing; provides ecological benefit by recycling animal-based nitrogen in nature.
Identified on: 1/1/2026