Bug Identifier
Bagworm (Larva/Pupa Case fragment)
Community identification

Bagworm (Larva/Pupa Case fragment)

Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Psychidae
Size
Cases range from 1/4 inch to 2 inches in length.
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found on a variety of evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs, often in residential landscapes.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on leaves and needles of host plants, including cedar, juniper, arborvitae, and oak.

Behavior Patterns

Larvae construct protective silk cases covered with plant debris. Females never leave the bag, while males emerge as moths to mate.

Risks & Benefits

High populations can cause severe defoliation and death of ornamental trees. Not harmful to humans directly, but a significant horticultural pest.