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Pest Profile: Moths
Moths are common household pests with a reputation for damaging clothing, fabrics, and stored food. Many moths live outdoors and are harmless, and even helpful to the environment, certain types can become persistent indoor pests once they are established. The typical adult moth is small with narrow wings and subtle colours that allow them to blend into their surroundings.
Last Updated: December 24, 2025
Moth Biology and Life Cycle
The lifecycle of a moth encompasses four stages, going from egg to larva, pupa, and adult. Female moths lay eggs on or near food sources and those eggs hatch in no more than a couple of weeks. The hatched larvae will feed on the materials available until they spin cocoons, enter the pupal stage, and eventually emerge as adults. When the conditions are right, moth populations can grow quickly and persist for an extended period.
Moth Habitat and Behaviour
Moths tend to prefer dark, undisturbed areas. These kinds of areas are where larvae can feed without interruption, which is why closets, storage bins, and attics are popular spots to find growing moth populations. As the name would suggest, pantry moths are specifically seen in kitchens and other food storage areas.
Moth larvae avoid light and are rarely seen unless the infestation is particularly advanced. Adult moths are often seen flying near lights or resting on walls. There are a number of ways for moths to get into a home, including through open doors and windows, on secondhand clothing, or via infested food products.
Moth Treatment Options
Eliminating infested materials is the first important step in getting rid of moths. This means discarding contaminated food items, laundering affected clothing, and vacuuming storage areas. If an infestation is widespread or keeps coming back, professional pest control services may be necessary. Professionals can use insecticide applications or pheromone monitoring traps to reduce populations.
Moth FAQs
Q: Do moths ruin clothes or food?
A: Adult moths don’t cause damage, but larvae do. They feed on fabrics and stored food, which can lead to holes in clothes or contamination of pantry items.
Q: Why do I keep seeing moths in my home?
A: Seeing adult moths often points to a nearby infestation. Eggs and larvae may be present in closets or carpets even if you don’t see any visible damage.
Q: Can I prevent moth infestations?
A: It’s possible to greatly reduce the chances of a moth infestation through methods like proper storage, regular cleaning, and inspecting secondhand items before bringing them inside.
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