Is it a clothes moth?
The clothes moth is a small insect whose larvae feed on natural fibers, commonly encountered in closets, wardrobes, and storage areas.
CC0 photograph via iNaturalist (research-grade identification)
whichbug identifies insects from what you can see. It does not identify bites and has no health information.
What to look for
| Size | 8-10 mm wingspan |
|---|---|
| Colour | golden-brown with white markings |
| Shape | slender body with narrow wings held roof-like at rest |
| Wings | two pairs, forewings longer than hindwings, often with fringed edges |
| Antennae | long, thread-like, extending forward |
| Movement | weak fliers, often seen crawling on fabrics or resting on walls |
Where you'll find them
closets and wardrobesstorage boxes with woolenscarpeted areasdrapes and upholsteryattics and basementsfabric pest
Larvae feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, and fur, causing holes and thinning in textiles.
Season: late winter to early spring
Signs it's around
- irregular holes in fabrics
- silken tubes or cases carried by larvae
- frass (droppings) resembling fine sand
- shed skins of larvae
Not sure? The lookalikes
| vs pantry moth | clothes moth larvae have a distinct head capsule and are found on fabrics, while pantry moth larvae lack a distinct head and are found in dry goods |
| vs carpet beetle | carpet beetle larvae are hairy and segmented with a brush-like tail, whereas clothes moth larvae are smooth and lack a brush |
| vs silverfish | silverfish have three tail-like appendages and a carrot-shaped body, while clothes moths have wings and a distinct head |
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