Plaster Bagworms
(Phereoeca uterella)
Appearance
Plaster bagworms are similar in appearance and closely related to clothes moths. The larvae of bagworms live in a flattened, gray, watermelon seed-shaped case about ½-inch long. The case is constructed of silken fiber and sand particles, lint, paint fragments, and other debris. The case has a slit-like opening at each end, and the larva is able to move around and feed from either end.
Behavior
Plaster Bagworm cases, constructed by the larval or caterpillar stage, often attract attention when found in South Florida homes. However, usually only the empty larval or pupal cases are found on walls of houses. The larvae mainly feed on spider webs; however, they will also feed on fabrics made of natural fiber as well.
Habitat
Plaster bagworms are easily seen on light-colored walls. Close examination of the house may reveal bagworms attached to the underside of chairs, bookcases, and other furniture. They are often found along the edge of rugs, near baseboards, or on the lower edges of walls. Bagworms are quite common in garages and underneath buildings.
Interesting Facts
The Plaster bagworm is also known as the Household casebearer.
Control
Do you live in South Florida and think that this pest may be invading your home? Hulett Environmental Services offers specialty lawn care treatments designed to control and eliminate this pest!
