
Community identification
Plaster Bagworm
Phereoeca uterella
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera: Tineidae
- Size
- Case length is about 8-13 mm (0.3-0.5 inches)
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors on walls or floors, and in moist areas like bathrooms or kitchens where dust and spiderwebs accumulate.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed on spiderwebs, wool, human hair, and dead insects.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a protective silk case flattened and almond-shaped, covered with sand or dust; it can poke its head out from either end to move or feed.
Risks & Benefits
They are considered a minor domestic pest as they can damage natural fiber fabrics, but they do not bite or pose health risks to humans.