Behavior

Mediterranean flour moth larvae spin webbing that mats flour and other foodstuffs together, which becomes a big machinery-clogging problem in flour mills. In addition to flour, this moth larvae attack beans, bran, biscuits, cereals, chocolate, dried fruit, dry dog food, nuts, seeds and other stored food items. The adult moths aren’t a problem, except that they mate and lay eggs that hatch into larvae. Adults are attracted to light.

Treatment

Inspect kitchen foodstuffs, and transfer any products stored in paper, cardboard or plastic bags into tight-sealing jars or Tupperware-type containers; don’t forget your dog or cat food, or birdseed. Throw out any products that show evidence of moth or larva activity. If you suspect moth activity, your Clark technician will know how to control them, with minimal impact on your environment and without putting your and your family’s safety at risk.

Latin name: Anagasta kuehniella