Plaster Bagworm
Plaster Bagworm
So, just the other day I was sitting in my house and enjoying my weekend. But, as always in Florida, a certain type of bug decided that it would rather me not enjoy my time. Looking up from my chair, I saw something that looked like a small, weird-looking grey bag hanging from my wall. After some research, it seems that what I have is a mean case of…plaster bagworm?
Plaster Bagworm: What Is It?
The case of the plaster bagworm is similar to a watermelon or pumpkin seed in its shape and flatness. It can look like an empty case or even a shell.
Slit-like openings are located at each end. The entire thing is about half an inch long. It’s made of silk fiber, sand, lint, and other miscellaneous debris. The openings at the end allow the larvae to move and to eat. Plaster bagworms are a close relative of the clothes moth. They eat spiderwebs, wool, and the discarded larval cases of members of its own species. And though these bagworms are harmless, I can tell you first hand that their nests are not pretty too look at. They also feed on household rugs, and clothing made of natural fibers.
Plaster Bagworm: What To Do
In its larval stage, the plaster bagworm has three sets of legs as well as false legs. It’s believed that the real legs help it walk on floors, while the false legs with hooks on the ends allow it to walk inside its protective case.
The reason plaster bagworms are common Florida pests is that they like the high humidity found here. A good way to keep them away is to keep your air conditioner on and your house cool.
It’s also important to keep a clean house. Obviously getting rid of spiderwebs is a #1 priority, since that is a favorite meal of the plaster bagworm. Don’t forget to knock down and sweep up any other bagworm cases you find too. They are usually easy to spot on walls unless your paint color matches the bug’s case!
