Only their heads and legs appear outside, but from either end of the case. The webbing clothes moth feeds inside of silken burrows spun over the fabric surface. Female moths lay eggs, singly or in small clusters, that hatch into tiny caterpillars within 4 to 10 days. They pupate in silken cases in which fibers from the infested fabric and excrement are incorporated. The life cycle may be completed within 2 months but may take several years.
Caterpillars have chewing mouthparts.
Larvae feed mainly on wool, feathers, fur, hair, upholstered furniture, leather, fish meals, milk powders, lint, dust or paper. Sometimes they will damage fabrics of plant origin and synthetic materials soiled with oils or blended with animal fibers. These species avoid light in all stages and are located by examining stored animal product materials such as old clothing, woolens, yarn, furs, feather pillows and felt on piano strikers. For additional information, contact your local Texas extension service agent, or search for other state extension service offices.