Moths

Moths, (order Lepidoptera), any of about 160,000 species of overwhelmingly nocturnal flying insects that, along with the butterflies and skippers, constitute the order Lepidoptera.

Characteristics of Moths

Moths vary greatly in size, ranging in wingspan from about 4 mm (0.16 inch) to nearly 30 cm (about 1 foot). Highly adapted, they live in all but polar habitats. The wings, bodies, and legs of moths are covered with dustlike scales that come off if the insect is handled.

Moth Pest Control Services

Compared with butterflies, moths have stouter bodies and duller colouring. Moths also have distinctive feathery or thick antennae. When at rest, moths either fold their wings tentlike over the body, wrap them around the body, or hold them extended at their sides, whereas butterflies hold their wings vertically.

As with all lepidopterans, the moth life cycle has four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult (imago). The larvae and adults of most moth species are plant eaters. Larvae in particular do considerable damage to ornamental trees and shrubs and to many other plants of economic importance.

The bollworm and measuring worm are two of the most destructive types of moth larvae. Some moth species (especially those of the family Tineidae, which includes the clothes moth) eat wool, fur, silk, and even feathers.

Some of the better-known moth families include: Gelechiidae, to which the destructive bollworms of cotton, corn, tomatoes, and other crops belong; Tortricidae, or leaf roller moths, which are forest pests; Lymantriidae, the tussock moths, also containing forest pests such as the spongy moth;

Arctiidae, the tiger moths, with many brightly coloured tropical species; Olethreutidae, including several destructive species such as the codling moth and the Oriental fruit moth; Noctuidae, the owlet moths, one of the largest families of lepidopterans; Saturniidae, the giant silkworm moths, containing the largest individual; and Geometridae, measuring worm moths, including the waves, pugs, and carpet moths. For more detailed information see lepidopteran.

5 Ways to Get Rid of Moths

1. Deep Clean the Area. Use soap and water to wipe down surfaces and thoroughly vacuum cracks and crevices.
2. Use a Natural Moth Killer. This will safely remove any larvae and eggs that might still be present.
3. Store Clothes Correctly. …
4. Use A Moth Repellent. …
5. Repeat Every Season.

What is a natural repellent for moths?

Make your own natural repellant – Place dried rosemary, thyme, cloves, lavender or bay leaves into a small cloth bag and hang them in your wardrobe and place them in your drawers. The oil form of these herbs, sprayed on contaminated areas and clothes, can also repel moths

What is the best insecticide for moths?

Pyrethrins
Insecticides for clothes moths usually contain pyrethrins or permethrin. Pyrethrin insecticides provide quick knockdown of clothes moths, and most can be sprayed directly on fabrics if needed (in situations where fabrics cannot be laundered or dry cleaned).

How do professionals get rid of moths?

For large scale commercial accounts, fumigation is an effective option. At times, low-volume chemical treatments can also be effective. For the fabric moth pests, non-chemical methods e.g. vacuuming/sanitation, proper storage, and conventional materials e.g. liquid sprays and dusts are commonly used.

What attracts a moth infestation?

They get attracted to bread, flour, cereal, dried nuts, processed products, and pasta. Since they have an excellent sense of smell, they can reach your cabinets within such a short time and infest the place. Some pantry moths are referred to as Indian meal moths.

Why is my house full of moths?

How do moths get into the house? If you find a single moth in your home, it’s likely that it has come through the window. But if you’re inundated with them it’s likely that the larvae has been brought into the home through somebody’s shopping or clothes.

Can you ever get rid of house moths?

There are several ways to prevent or eliminate a moth infestation, including vacuuming regularly, using cedar products, and storing clothes in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas. If these measures are not effective, consider contacting a pest control company.

Are moths repelled by vinegar?

Vinegar: Vinegar really can be used for anything. And when it comes to cleaning out your closet or storage box to repel moths, it does the job. The strong acidic smell of vinegar will repel moths away from the area as well as cleanse the area from dirt, dust, moth eggs and larvae.

What can I buy to keep moths away?

Many people use mothballs and other chemical sachets to keep moths away. These are highly effective! However, natural moth repellents such as lavender, cedar, and rosemary may also deter moths from moving into your closet space.

What attracts moths and how do you get rid of them?

Moths hate light and movement, so keep your closet open, air it out regularly, and move clothes around. Keep an eye on your sweaters and other wool clothes for signs of moths, and be diligent about keeping them clean. Likewise, wash any vintage or used clothes you buy before storing them.

Does spraying for moths work?

A: Yes, but they will not eliminate them. BtK only kills butterflies and moths that are in the caterpillar stage. Most of Indiana’s butterflies, including Monarch butterflies, are not in the caterpillar stage until over a month after the aerial spray, when the BtK protein has degraded.