Expert: Walter Hintz - 8/8/2008

Question
Hi Mr. Hintz,
I have a problem, i have these small bugs in my apartment and i need to find out what they are. We had quite a bit of them when we moved into our apartment about two years ago, they seemed to go away, but this summer they're coming out like crazy and i don't know what they are and if they are harmful. We've found them in several places, but where they seem to be most often is in the bathroom. They are small, almond shaped, they seem to be dark grey and some black. They do not have any feet, wings, eyes or anything like that. They do however have something like a small feeler or foot that comes from a small opening near the top and they use it to pull themselves and move around. They are  roughly about 1/2 an inch in length and maybe 1/4 in width. I am terrified to take showers or bath in my apartment, not knowing what they are scares me, I'm afraid they may be parasites or some kind of harmful animal.  I do not currently have a picture of them, but I could try to take a picture of one if you want and send it to you so you could see them. If you could help me I would really appreciate it. Thank you for your help and I hope to hear from you soon!!!!!

Answer
Hi Ana
 I believe these are plaster bagworms.  Bagworms are caterpillars that build a small case and drag it around with them.  The caterpillar feeds on spider webs and finally emerges as a small moth leaving the empty case behind.  The are completely harmless.  Vacuum or sweep them up.  They will again go away.
you can send the photo to: waltjh@sbcglobal.net