Moth Pest Control

What Are Moths? 

Moths are a group of insects that belong to the order Lepidoptera, which also includes butterflies. Moths are generally nocturnal and are attracted to light, while butterflies are diurnal and are attracted to flowers.

There are over 160,000 species of moths worldwide, ranging in size from less than 1 mm to over 30 cm in wingspan. They come in a variety of colours and patterns, from dull and camouflaged to bright and eye-catching.

Moths play important ecological roles, serving as pollinators and as a food source for other animals. Some species, however, can be considered pests, as their larvae can damage crops, textiles, and other materials.

In general, moths are not dangerous to humans. Most species of moths do not bite or sting and are not poisonous. They are primarily interested in nectar or other food sources and do not pose a threat to people.

What Causes Moths Around Your House? 

Moths are attracted to sources of light, warmth, and moisture, which can be found in and around houses. Some common reasons why moths may be around your house include:

1. Outdoor lighting: Moths are attracted to bright lights, so if you have outdoor lighting, it could be drawing them to your house.
2. Open windows and doors: Moths may enter your home through open windows and doors, especially at night when they are attracted to the light inside.
3. Food sources: Moths are attracted to food sources, such as pet food, birdseed, and spilled crumbs in your kitchen.
4. Moisture: Moths are also attracted to moisture, so areas with high humidity, such as basements and bathrooms, may be more prone to moth activity.
5. Natural habitat: Some species of moths may naturally live in the area around your house, such as in trees or bushes.

How To Get Rid Of Moths? 

1. Clean and declutter: Moths are attracted to dust, dirt, and clutter, so keeping your home clean and decluttered can help prevent them from coming in. Regularly vacuum carpets and floors, wipe down surfaces, and discard any old or expired food.
2. Store food properly: Moths are attracted to food sources, so make sure to store all food, including pet food and birdseed, in airtight containers.
3. Use moth repellents: There are many natural and chemical moth repellents available, including cedar blocks, lavender sachets, and mothballs. Place these items in your closet, drawers, and other areas where moths are often found.
4. Use traps: Moth traps can be effective in catching and killing adult moths. These traps use a pheromone to attract male moths, which then become trapped and unable to mate with female moths.
5. Call a pest control professional: If you have a severe moth infestation or are unable to get rid of them on your own, consider calling a pest control professional who can provide more targeted treatments.

What Keeps Moths Away?

There are several natural and chemical ways to keep moths away:

1. Cedarwood: Moths are repelled by the scent of cedarwood, so using cedarwood hangers, blocks, or sachets in your closet or drawers can help keep them away.
2. Lavender: Like cedarwood, moths are also repelled by the scent of lavender. You can use lavender sachets or essential oil to keep moths away.
3. Eucalyptus: The scent of eucalyptus is also a natural moth repellent. You can use eucalyptus essential oil or place eucalyptus leaves in your closet or drawers.
4. Citronella: Citronella is a natural insect repellent that can also keep moths away. You can use citronella candles or essential oil to keep moths at bay.
5. Mothballs: Mothballs contain a chemical called naphthalene that repels moths. However, they are toxic and can be harmful to humans and pets if ingested, so use them with caution and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Pheromone traps: Pheromone traps use a chemical scent to attract and trap male moths, preventing them from mating and reproducing.
7. Light traps: Light traps use ultraviolet light to attract moths, which are then trapped and killed.

To prevent moths from being around your house, it can be helpful to seal any cracks or openings around doors and windows, remove any sources of food or moisture, and use screens or mesh to cover windows and vents. It’s important to note that moth infestations can be difficult to completely eradicate, so it may take some time and effort to get rid of them completely. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help prevent future infestations.

While moths do not pose a health risk, they are nevertheless an unwelcome pest in the home due to the severe damage their larvae can cause to fabrics, carpets and clothing.

Such destruction may continue for weeks after moth caterpillars have hatched, and significant damage may have been caused before you even notice the presence of flying moths. As with all pests, the prevention of a moth problem is better than any cure – contact us today to learn more.

A moth control plan would include the following:

• Inspection and Treatment Plan
• Education
• Monitoring
• Habitat Reduction and Non-Chemical Treatments
• Insect Growth Regulators
• Chemical Control