Narrow Lichen Case-bearer
Common NameNarrow Lichen Case-bearer
Scientific NameDahlica triquetrella
FamilyPsychidae
Wingspan (mm)9.5
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsdark brown, grey
HabitatAreas with lichens and mosses, on rocks, walls, tree trunks
Geographic RangeEurope, North America
Host Plantslichens, algae, mosses
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae construct and carry a protective case throughout their development, feeding on lichens, algae, and mosses. Females are wingless and remain within or near their larval case, reproducing parthenogenetically (without males) in many populations.
Identification TipsLarval cases are distinctive, narrow, and covered with lichen/detritus, often found on lichen-covered surfaces. Adult males are small, dark moths. Females are wingless and rarely seen, remaining in their cases.
Description
The image shows a larva of a bagworm moth, encased in a narrow, portable case constructed from silk and fragments of lichen and detritus, camouflaged against a green leaf. The adult male moth is small and dark, while the female is wingless and grub-like.
