Case-bearing clothes moth (larva/case)

Scientific Name: Tinea pellionella

Order & Family: Lepidoptera: Tineidae

Size: Larval cases are typically 8 mm to 10 mm (approx. 3/8 inch) in length.

Case-bearing clothes moth (larva/case)

Natural Habitat

Indoor environments, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas like closets, underneath furniture, or within rugs and carpets.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on natural fibers containing keratin, such as wool, fur, feathers, hair, silk, and felt.

Behavior Patterns

The larva constructs a portable silken case incorporating fibers from the material it is eating for camouflage. It remains inside this case as it feeds and eventually pupates within it.

Risks & Benefits

Risks include significant damage to household textiles, clothing, and upholstery. They offer no notable benefits to humans and are considered a common household pest.

Identified on: 3/5/2026