Trichophaga tapetzella

Larvae occur in owl pellets (pellets regurgitated by nocturnal birds of prey), where they feed on feathers, hair, and other organic debris. Additional larval habitats beyond owl pellets have been noted but not specified in available sources. Adults are found in the general vicinity of larval sites.

Widespread; recorded from Europe (including the Azores: São Miguel, Pico) and reported as present worldwide in general sources.

Larvae feed on keratinous material including feathers and hair found in owl pellets.

Larvae contribute to decomposition of organic material in owl pellets, processing feathers and hair that would otherwise resist breakdown.

Common name references historical damage to woolen tapestries and carpets, though contemporary sources emphasize natural habitats over domestic pest status.

• Tineola bisselliellaAlso a tineid moth associated with keratinous materials; distinguished by adult morphology and specific habitat preferences
• Trichophaga bipartitellaCongeneric species; separation requires examination of genitalia and subtle wing pattern differences

The common names 'tapestry moth' and 'carpet moth' may suggest primary association with human dwellings, but available evidence emphasizes natural habitats such as owl pellets. The degree of current economic importance as a textile pest appears reduced or historically overstated.

• Tineidae
• keratin feeder
• owl pellet inhabitant
• widespread
• decomposer

• BugGuide
• GBIF taxonomy match
• iNaturalist taxon
• NCBI Taxonomy
• Catalogue of Life
• Sur les mœurs et l'habitat de Trichophaga tapetzella [Lép.]