Moth Removal & Control
There are some pests, according
to scientific studies and data that could be making a re-appearance in greater
numbers, the moth being one of them. But why is this and what can be done about
it?
Do
you have moths?
The damage caused by moths is
very similar to carpet beetles and thus, before you take any kind of action, it
is important that the infestation is identified as being that of the moth.
Signs
to look for…
·
Some of those cobwebs in the corner of the
wardrobe or in the attic may not actually be cobwebs, but a type of hammock
created by moths – this is not always apparent, but can be a sign moths have
been in situ for a while
·
On opening wardrobes, cupboards etc. exposing
the inside to light, moths may flutter out towards the light!
·
Old cocoon cases, left behind as the moth
emerges from it pupae – it is this emerging moth that causes the damage in
clothing, soft furnishing and so on
How
do moths get in to my property?
They fly in, through open doors
and windows. Moths are attracted to light and thus having windows open and
lights on at night time, is an open invitation for moths to make their way in.
if undetected, they will seek places to lay eggs and these pupae will start to
develop in to moths. As they grow, they will eat what is around them from the
jumpers stored in the attic, to the underside of sofas and so on, where they
can chew away on the soft furnishings or carpet, quite happily.
Natural
materials
There is no doubt that the moth
prefers the delights of wool, silk and so on – in other words, natural
materials rather than synthetic, man-made ones. This was the reason why at the
start of the 20th century, moths were a common problem – hence the
penchant for mothballs! – but, as our use of synthetic materials increased, moths
became less of a common infestation.
However, this has come full
circle and once again, with many of us trying to live better and more
organically, we have started to buy items that are either made entirely of
natural fabrics or are a mix with synthetic ones.
The bad news is, moths will chew
away at any fabric that contains natural material; in many cases as little of
25% natural fabric or material is enough for a moth to lay eggs on it,
providing a ready meal for the emerging pupae.
Prevention
is better than cure
Storing items that are clean, but
also in sealed plastic bags are key factors in preventing moths but, if you do
find you have a moth infestation, it may be worth calling in the services of a
professional pest controller.
Moths have a habit of being
widespread in a room, and knowing where to look – as well as treating with the
right insecticides etc. – is something that the professional pest controller is
adept at doing.
