Household Casebearer
Common NameHousehold Casebearer
Scientific NamePhereoeca uterella
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyTineinae
Wingspan (mm)11
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black
HabitatIndoors (homes, attics, closets), sheltered outdoor areas
Geographic RangeWidespread in tropical and subtropical regions, introduced globally
Host Plantswool, silk, feathers, hair, dried insects, spiderwebs, dust
Flight PeriodYear-round indoors, warmer months outdoors
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae construct a distinctive, flattened, spindle-shaped silken case covered with debris, which they carry as they feed. Pupation occurs within this case.
Identification TipsAdults are small and cryptically colored. The most reliable identification feature is the unique, portable, flattened case constructed by the larvae, which resembles a small, flattened seed or piece of lint.
Description
A small, drab moth with mottled grayish-brown wings featuring irregular dark spots, and a fuzzy, light brown head. Its wings are typically held tent-like over its body at rest.
