top of page

Moths

Moth.jpeg

There are several species of moths found in Oklahoma including Webbing Clothes Moth, Pantry Moths such as Almond Moths, Angoumois Grain Moths, Indianmeal Moths and Mediterranean Flour Moths.

Appearance
 

  • They have two pairs of wings covered in scales

  • They have large compound eyes

  • Their color depends on the species and can be brown, gray, white, metallic, or various other shades

  • Their size depends on the species

Behavior, Diet & Habits
​

Behavior, diet, and habits of moths vary between the species. They often enter your home through an open door or window and you can find them in dark locations such as attics, closets, pantries, and basements since most moths avoid light. Pantry moths enter when you bring in already infested food such as grain.

 

Some moths have relatively no effect on mankind while others are major agricultural pests. Pantry and clothes moths are the most problematic for homeowners. The adult moths are not destructive, however, the larvae of these moths cause damage while feeding. Pantry moth larvae feed on the stored products such as cereal and grains, while clothes moth larvae feed on natural fibers such as cotton, wool, and silk.

​

Moths can be a food source for birds, reptiles, insects, spiders, and other animals.

Reproduction
​

Moths have a relatively short life cycle and reproduce and develop rapidly. See specific species below for more information.

Signs of an Infestation
​

There are several signs of infestation. The most obvious is If you see adult moths flying around the room. Signs of Pantry moths include webbing on packages such as flour or cereal, an unpleasant odor inside the package, clumping of grains, and pupae in the food package or pantry. Signs of Clothes Moths include damage, such as holes, webbing, cocoons and droppings, in and around clothes, wool or other natural fibrous materials.

Treatments
​

Prevention is the best strategy for Clothes and Pantry moths. Keeping your clothes laundered, dry cleaned and properly stored makes them less attractive to clothes moths. Regularly inspecting your food items, maintaining proper food storage and never mixing old food with new reduces the chance of Pantry Moths. If you find yourself with an infestation, we recommend that you thoroughly clean the area, get rid of any affected items, and contact a pest control professional.

bottom of page