Description
The moth is called Case-bearing as the larva or caterpillar develops within a tube that it spins around itself from the materials it feeds on. As such the colour of the case can vary depending on the colour of the food source. When fully grown the larva pupates within the cocoon and eventually the adult moth emerges to mate and lay eggs. Empty or ‘discarded’ cases can still be found after the adult has flown indicating its previous presence.
One generation, from egg to adult, normally takes a year to develop with the adults flying in the summer months. However, in heated buildings, two to three generations can develop in a single year. Development is delayed by temperatures below 12°C. They can, however, survive in low relative humidity.
For more information, please read our Bullet Lure for Case-bearing Clothes Moth product information leaflet and our Insect Pest Fact Sheet for Case-bearing Clothes Moth.