Bug Identifier
Grain Weaver Moth (or Flour Moth)
Community identification

Grain Weaver Moth (or Flour Moth)

Ephestia kuehniella / Pyralis farinalis

Order & Family
Order: Lepidoptera, Family: Pyralidae
Size
5 mm to 10 mm in length with a 15 mm to 25 mm wingspan
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Pantries, warehouses, kitchens, and areas where grain or flour products are stored

Diet & Feeding

Larvae feed on flour, cereal, dry grains, nuts, and processed plant foods

Behavior Patterns

Night-active adults; larvae spin silk webs through their food source as they feed, creating clusters

Risks & Benefits

Pest that contaminates food supplies with silk and frass; no direct physical risk to humans but causes significant food waste