Case-bearing clothes moth (larva)

Natural Habitat

Indoors in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets, under furniture, or in storage bins and rugs.

Diet & Feeding

Keratin-rich organic materials including wool, fur, feathers, hair, silk, and felt.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a protective silken case covered in debris or fibers from its food source. It carries this 'sleeping bag' with it as it feeds. It undergoes complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and adult.

Risks & Benefits

Significant household pest that can damage expensive fabrics, rugs, and heirlooms; however, in nature, they provide the ecosystem benefit of recycling animal-based organic matter.

Identified on: 3/9/2026