Case-bearing Clothes Moth (Larva/Case)

Natural Habitat

Typically found indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, or in carpet corners. They thrive in environments with natural fibers.

Diet & Feeding

The larvae feed on keratin-based animal fibers including wool, silk, fur, feathers, and felt. They will also eat accumulated hair and lint found in dust bunnies.

Behavior Patterns

The larva builds a portable, silken tube-like case around its body, often attaching debris (sand, fibers, or fecal, pellets) to the outside for camouflage. It carries this case with it as it moves to feed. When threatened, it retreats inside the case.

Risks & Benefits

They are considered a household pest because the larvae can damage clothing, carpets, upholstery, and other textiles made of natural animal fibers. They do not bite or sting humans and pose no direct health risk.

Identified on: 2/26/2026