Clothes Moth

Natural Habitat

Commonly found indoors, particularly in dark, undisturbed areas where clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, or stored textiles are present. Also found in attics, closets, and storage chests.

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (caterpillars) feed on natural fibers such as wool, cashmere, silk, fur, feathers, and other animal products containing keratin. Adults do not feed.

Behavior Patterns

Adult moths often emerge from pupae and seek mates for reproduction. They are typically nocturnal and attracted to light. Females lay eggs on suitable food sources for the larvae. The larval stage (caterpillar) is the feeding and growth stage. After reaching full size, the larva pupates, often in a cocoon or protected spot, before metamorphosing into an adult.

Risks & Benefits

Potential risks include significant damage to clothing, carpets, upholstered furniture, and other textile items made from natural fibers, leading to economic loss. They generally pose no direct health risk to humans. There are no known significant benefits to humans or the ecosystem.

Identified on: 8/9/2025