Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm
Community identification

Household Casebearer or Plaster Bagworm

Phereoeca uterella (sometimes referred to as Phereoeca allutella)

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Tineidae
Size
Larval case is typically 8-13 mm long
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Typically found inside human habitations, particularly in humid climates such as Florida and the tropics. They cling to walls, baseboards, and are often seen on wool carpets or fabrics.

Diet & Feeding

Detritivores; they feed on spider webs, old insect skins, wool, human hair, and other keratin-containing fibers.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a flattened, pumpkin-seed or diamond-shaped protective case out of silk and debris (sand, soil, fibers). It drags this case around as it moves and can retreat inside at both ends when threatened. They eventually pupate inside this case.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest rather than a major threat. They do not bite or sting humans, but in large numbers, they can damage wool clothing, rugs, or fabrics.