Case-bearing clothes moth (larva)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, or in storage bins containing natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on keratin-containing animal products such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, and silk, as well as occasional synthetic fibers mixed with animal proteins.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a portable silken case camouflaged with fibers from the material it is eating. It stays inside this case, only sticking its head out to feed, and eventually pupates within it.

Risks & Benefits

They are a common household pest that can cause significant damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They pose no direct health risk to humans or pets but are economically destructive.

Identified on: 3/5/2026