Carpet Beetle
Clothes moths are small and golden-yellow in color with a distinctive sheen. They are about 1/4 inch wide with a wing span of 1/2 inch. Not to be confused with food moths which are much larger, clothes moths are not attracted to light. They like to consume wool, fur, silk and hair. An infestation can destroy a whole wardrobe as well as damage bedding and furniture.
Mostly what you see are the male clothes moth as the females die off soon after laying eggs. The females are also weak flyers and usually hop and run. Eggs will hatch after 10 days in summer. The life cycle is about 65 to 90 days.
Larvae feed on the fabric which is what causes the damage. Generally, clothes moths are secretive and like to live in the dark. Chances are the only evidence you will see are holes in your clothes.
Cedar has been used to keep clothes moths at bay however it only effects young larvae, not eggs or the older larvae. Cedar also loses it’s effectiveness as the scent dies down. Lavender is also used and is also not effective as it will not kill eggs or larvae.
Do not use moth balls as the chemicals are harmful to children and pets. For a severe infestation, call Hart’s Extermination.
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