At first glance, this strange little object can look like a piece of dirt, a dried caterpillar, or even something much more alarming.
But if you find something similar slowly moving across a floor or wall, there is a good chance you’re looking at the protective case of a case-bearing moth larva, sometimes called a household casebearer or plaster bagworm.
The exact species can’t be confirmed from this photograph alone, but the shape and appearance are consistent with the cases made by small moth larvae. These larvae create portable cases from silk mixed with fibers, dust, hair, and other debris from their surroundings. (Ask IFAS – Powered by EDIS)
What Is That Brown Part?
The dark brown section visible at one end is likely the head of the larva.
The larva lives inside the elongated case and can extend its head and legs from the opening to move around. When disturbed, it can retreat back inside for protection. (Ask IFAS – Powered by EDIS)
