How Can I Identify Moths?

Moths are of various shapes, sizes, and colors, making them difficult to identify without some basic knowledge. Whether you’re trying to differentiate between common household moths or learning more about the species you encounter outdoors, understanding how to identify moths can help you take appropriate action if necessary. Identifying moths correctly is especially important when dealing with infestations, as certain species, like clothes moths, can cause damage to fabrics.

General Characteristics of Moths

Moths are closely related to butterflies and belong to the same insect order, Lepidoptera. One of the easiest ways to identify a moth is by its behavior and appearance. Moths are typically nocturnal and are often attracted to light. They have feathery or comb-like antennae, whereas butterflies have clubbed antennae. Their wings tend to be duller in color compared to butterflies, though some moths have brightly colored patterns. When at rest, moths generally spread their wings flat, while butterflies tend to fold their wings upward over their bodies. Moths are also recognized by their body structure. They often have thicker, more robust bodies covered in tiny scales, whereas butterflies are more slender. These characteristics provide a good starting point for how to identify moths in general.

How to Identify Clothes Moths

Identifying clothes moths is crucial for homeowners since these moths can cause considerable damage to fabrics like wool, silk, and fur. Two common species of clothes moths are the webbing clothes moth (Tineola bisselliella) and the casemaking clothes moth (Tinea pellionella). Both species are small, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long, and have a subtle golden or tan color, which makes them hard to spot in dimly lit areas like closets. The webbing clothes moth has a uniform pale, buff-colored appearance with no distinct markings on its wings. It tends to hide in dark areas and lays its eggs on fabrics, where the larvae hatch and begin feeding on the fibers. The casemaking clothes moth, on the other hand, has faint dark spots on its wings and creates a small, portable case made from fabric fibers, which it carries around as protection while feeding. The damage done by these moths is caused by their larvae, not the adult moths themselves. The larvae eats natural fibers, leaving behind irregular holes in clothing, carpets, and upholstery. If you notice unexplained damage to fabrics in your home, this can be a sign of a clothes moth infestation. 

Signs of a Moth Infestation

In addition to visually identifying the moths themselves, certain symptoms can indicate the presence of a moth infestation. If you find small, irregular holes in clothing, blankets, or rugs made from natural fibers, this is a strong indicator of a clothes moth infestation. You may also notice the presence of webbing, cocoons, or larvae in the affected areas. Clothes moths tend to avoid light, so you’re unlikely to see them flying around in well-lit areas. Instead, they hide in dark closets, drawers, or behind furniture. If you spot small moths flying around at night, especially near windows or light sources, they are more likely to be pantry moths, which feed on stored grains and dry goods. Taking quick action to identify the type of moth and its source is important for preventing further damage.

Myths and Facts About Moths

Myth	Fact
Moths are always attracted to light.	While many moth species are attracted to light, clothes moths avoid it and prefer dark areas.
All moths eat clothing.	Only the larvae of specific moth species, like clothes moths, feed on fabrics.
Moths live for years.	Most moth species have short lifespans, with adult moths living for a few weeks or months.
Moths are inactive during the day.	Some moth species are active during the day, though most are nocturnal.
Clothes moths only infest clothing.	Clothes moth larvae can also damage carpets, upholstery, and other fabric-based items.