Common pests

Case-bearing clothes moths (Tinea pellionella) are up to 1cm long, mottled buff to dark brown in colour with reddish brown-headed white larvae or caterpillars.

Facts about case-bearing moths

The larvae and adults are commonly found outdoors as well as indoors, often in the vicinity of birds nests. The larvae of the case-bearing moth are easy to recognise, as they spin a small tubular case, which becomes covered with fragments of wool or feather The larvae can take between one month and a year to develop into adult moths. The larvae feed primarily on natural fibres, such as woollen clothing, furs and carpets. They are also known to prefer warm and humid conditions. In order to prevent infestations in confined spaces, such as drawers, where woollens etc. are stored the use of approved moth proofers or slow releasing insect repellents should be considered. Thorough cleaning, dusting and airing of clothes can also help avoid infestations. Adults can be knocked down using fly sprays.

How do they affect me?

The larvae feed primarily on natural fibres, such as woollen clothing, furs and carpets. They are also known to prefer warm and humid conditions.

How do you control them?

In order to prevent infestations in confined spaces, such as drawers, where woollens etc. are stored the use of approved moth proofers or slow releasing insect repellents should be considered. Thorough cleaning, dusting and airing of clothes can also help avoid infestations. Adults can be knocked down using fly sprays. Where infestations are extensive it is advisable to have a professional treatment carried out.