What are moths?
Moths are a type of insect closely related to butterflies. Moths and butterflies have many similarities including their scale-covered wings. However, moths have antennae that are threadlike or feathery as compared to the straight, club-tipped antennae of butterflies. Moths also have a much more stout body compared to a butterfly. You can't use wing color to tell butterflies and moths apart because both, depending on the species, may have very bright color patterns on their wings.
Are moths dangerous?
The larval stage of the moth is called a caterpillar. Caterpillars are voracious eaters and are the stage of development that causes the damage that moths are famous for. Caterpillars are well-known for feeding on and damaging the leaves of plants.
Many species of moths are either clothes moths or pantry moths. Clothes moths damage fabric items; the larvae chew holes through clothing, blankets, rugs, and other fabric items. Pantry pests contaminate whatever food source they hatch on, including oats, cereals, flour, chocolate, seeds, dry pet food, and other dry goods.
Why do I have a moth problem?
Contaminated food, clothing, upholstered furniture, and rugs are some of the main reasons that moths may be in your home. Adults or caterpillars may also get inside on potted plants that were once outside. Open windows or torn screens allow flying adults to get into your home after being attracted by outdoor lights.
Where will I find moths?
Inside, moths usually seek out dark, quiet areas to live. Where the females lay their eggs, and what the larvae (caterpillars) eat determines where you'll find moths in your house. Listed below are some of the most common areas of moth activity:
-
Kitchens
-
Bathrooms
-
Closets
-
Crawlspaces
-
Basements
-
Attics
How do I get rid of moths?
If you are looking to eliminate moths from your property, reach out to the professionals at Prewett Pest Control. Through advanced technology and convenient and modern services, we offer our customers exceptional pest control services for moths and other pests. Get rid of moths and keep them from returning to your residential or commercial property, by reaching out to the professionals at Prewett Pest Control. Contact us today to learn more about our local and effective pest control plans for Mobile, Auburn, Tuscaloosa, and the surrounding areas!
How can I prevent moths in the future?
To help you stop moths from taking over your Alabama property, we want to offer some easy-to-execute pest prevention tips:
-
Check the exterior of your home – repair torn screens and place weather stripping around exterior windows and doors.
-
Keep doors and windows closed as much as possible.
-
Turn off outdoor lights when not needed as outdoor lights attract moths.
-
Replace white outdoor lights with LED lights that are less attractive to moths and other insects.
-
Inspect potted plants that have been outside for caterpillars or moths before bringing them inside.
-
Don’t use cardboard boxes to store clothing, blankets, and other fabrics.
-
Inspect food packaging for rips before purchasing.
-
After bringing dry goods home from the store, remove them from the original packaging and place them in plastic or glass containers with airtight lids.
-
Use a vacuum to get rid of moths that are resting on walls or windows in your home.
