Moths

The Common Clothes Moth is the most important from a pest perspective. Its larvae feed on any natural fibres such as, wool, cotton, fur and feather products.

Moth Appearance

The wingspan of the adult moth is approximately 12mm. The body is 7-9mm long, brownish in colour and sometimes has a shiny appearance. Larvae are shiny, cream or white and up to 12mm long.

Signs of Moth Infestation

Damage to carpets and fabrics, usually consisting of irregular holes eaten in fabrics or carpet pile, indicate an infestation. Larvae feed on natural fibres usually at night.

Moth Biology

Females lay eggs among the fibres of suitable material which the larvae will then feed on. Eggs hatch in about 4 – 10 days and the emerging larvae weave silk in amongst the fibres to form tunnels which serve as a home throughout the development of the larva, which emerge to feed at night.