Bug Identifier
Household Casebearer (often Plaster Bagworm or similar)
Community identification

Household Casebearer (often Plaster Bagworm or similar)

Phereoeca uterella (or related Tineidae species)

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Tineidae (Clothes Moths family)
Size
Case length usually ranges from 8 to 13 mm (approx. 0.3 to 0.5 inches).
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Found indoors in homes, garages, and sheds, often on walls, baseboards, or under furniture. They prefer humid environments.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on hair, spider webs, wool, dead insects, lint, and old insect casings.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a protective, flattened, pumpkin-seed-shaped case out of silk and debris (sand, dust, frass) that it carries around. It has openings at both ends so the larva can turn around inside without leaving the case.

Risks & Benefits

Generally considered a nuisance pest rather than a major threat. They do not bite or sting but can cause minor damage to woolen fabrics, rugs, or furs if present in large numbers.