Residents across the Thames Valley are being warned moths in their homes could be signs of infestation.

Experts at the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) are now urging householders to seek help if they see a sudden rise in moths in their home, as rising temperatures encourage adults to emerge from their cocoons.

Most of the UK’s 2,500 moth species are harmless, but a few are considered to be pests, says Natalie Bungay, Technical Manager at BPCA.

She said: “Moths aren’t known to spread disease, they don’t bite humans and many adult moths don’t even have mouths.

“But certain moth larvae can damage textiles such as carpets and curtains, as well as clothing, while others infest food items such as cereals, grains and flour, leaving behind webbing, larvae and pupal cases.”

The three moth species most commonly considered as pests are the common clothes moth, Indian-meal moth and White-shouldered house moth.

All three go through a complete metamorphosis – including egg, larvae, pupal and adult stages - and in each case, it is the larvae that cause the damage.

Warmer temperatures tend to encourage adult moths to emerge from their pupal stage, so sudden frequent sightings of moths could mean that their larvae are lurking in your wardrobe or pantry.

Natalie added: “The common clothes moth is the most widespread clothes moth throughout the world and has the potential to cause enormous amounts of damage to natural fibres such as wool, furs, hides and feathers.

“The larvae of the Indian-meal moth can penetrate food packaging made of paper, cellophane and polythene in order to feed on items such as biscuits and cereal.

“The White-shouldered house moth thrives in accumulated animal hair and fluff in central heating ducts and radiators, and while they are often little more than a nuisance, in large numbers, an infestation can be distressing.

“If you suspect an infestation, it’s crucial to seek advice from a BPCA member as soon as possible.

“You can find a list of professional pest controllers at bpca.org.uk/find. BPCA check all their qualifications and regularly assess them to make sure they're capable of helping with even the worst pest problems.”

BPCA members are endorsed by the Government’s TrustMark scheme and must:

  • Carry the correct insurances
  • Be trained and qualified technicians
  • Be assessed to the British Standard in pest management EN 16636
  • Follow BPCA’s Codes of Best Practice.

To find a BPCA member visit: bpca.org.uk/find.