Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm

Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera (Order) / Tineidae (Family)

Size: Larval case is typically about 6 mm to 12 mm (0.25 to 0.5 inches) long.

Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in warm, humid climates; they often inhabit corners, baseboards, areas under furniture, and garages. They are especially fond of places where spider webs and dust accumulate.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on old spider webs, fibers (wool, silk), dead insects, and shed human hair or skin cells.

Behavior Patterns

The most distinctive behavior is the construction of a flattened, seed-shaped silken case covered in dust, soil, and debris, which acts as camouflage and protection. The larva lives inside this case, poking its head out from either end to move or eat.

Risks & Benefits

They are generally harmless to humans and do not bite or sting. However, they are considered pests because they can damage natural fibers like wool rugs and clothing, though destructive infestations are relatively rare compared to other textile pests.

Identified on: 2/10/2026