Brown House Moth

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors in homes, warehouses, pantries, and other places where stored food or natural fibers are present. They prefer warm, dark, and undisturbed environments.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on a wide range of organic materials including stored food products (grains, cereals, dried fruit, nuts), animal products (wool, feathers, leather, furs), and natural fibers. Adults generally do not feed.

Behavior Patterns

Adult moths are nocturnal and are attracted to light. Females lay eggs on suitable food sources. The larvae (caterpillars) are the damaging stage, as they feed on various organic materials. They can be found crawling on walls, ceilings, and inside food containers.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include contamination and damage to stored food items, resulting in economic losses. They can also damage textiles, carpets, and fur. They are not known to directly transmit diseases to humans or animals. As for benefits, they are generally considered pests indoors.

Identified on: 6/26/2025