Household Casebearer (often confused with Plaster Bagworm)
Scientific Name: Phereoeca uterella (sometimes referred to as Phereoeca allutella in some regions)
Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae (Clothes Moths)
Size: The case is approximately 8-13 mm long (about 0.3-0.5 inches).
Natural Habitat
Typically found indoors in warm, humid climates; they often inhabit closets, bathrooms, underneath furniture, and on stucco or concrete walls.
Diet & Feeding
The larva feeds on old spider webs, wool, hair, lint, dead insects, and fibrous debris.
Behavior Patterns
The larva constructs a flattened, spindle-shaped protective case out of silk and debris, which it drags around while it feeds. It can withdraw completely inside the case when threatened. They eventually pupate inside this case.
Risks & Benefits
Generally harmless to humans (they do not bite or sting). However, they can be minor household pests if large numbers accumulate, potentially damaging woolens or natural fibers, though they usually prefer spider webs and dust.
Identified on: 2/18/2026