Aglossa cuprina ingests grease produced by the bacteria that feed on decaying matter.

The moth has a wingspan that averages about an inch and a half (38 mm), and exhibits an overall dark, greyish-brown colour.

[10] A. cuprina is distributed throughout eastern North America and sightings have been recorded in California, Arkansas, Arizona, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin.

They hide in dark corners during the day and can be found in stables, outhouses, barns, warehouses, and cellars.

Stored product entomologists often advise producers on ways to reduce the chances of insect infestation and thus remain under food defect action levels.

A. cuprina is a common aspect of stored product entomology due to its caterpillars' feeding habits.

The larval stage prefers to live in dark secluded environments, and creates flexible tubular galleries.

The nearby materials provide structure to the silken covering and camouflage the moth while it undergoes metamorphosis.

The life cycle of A. cuprina has been recorded to range from approximately twelve months to over two years depending on weather and temperature conditions.