Bug Identifier
Tapestry Moth / Webbing Clothes Moth (Larva)
Community identification

Tapestry Moth / Webbing Clothes Moth (Larva)

Trichophaga tapetzella / Tineola bisselliella

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Larvae are roughly 1 to 10 mm in length; adults have a wingspan of 12-16 mm.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, under furniture, and in storage bins containing fabrics.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and leather, as well as lint and dust containing hair.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae often live within silken tubes or cases as they feed on fabric. They are photophobic, preferring dark corners, and can spend months in the larval stage before pupating into small, buff-colored moths.

Risks & Benefits

They are major household pests that cause significant damage to clothing, upholstery, and carpets. They pose no direct health risk to humans but can destroy expensive natural fiber items.