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Indian Meal Moths

What are Indian Meal Moths?

Indian meal moths are one example of pantry pests. They frequently invade food processing and storage spaces.

Adult Indian meal moths have a body shape similar to an oval and wings with a variety of colors.

Brown or cream coloration can be seen on the leading edge of the wing, while the trailing edge of the wing has a darker bronze hue to it.

They are most active at night and their flight path resembles a zigzag.

Indian meal larvae of moths are roughly 1/2 inch long. They feature a brown head and a worm-like body with varying shades of pink, yellow, and green.

This pantry pest is distinguished from others by the silken webs it creates on the surface of the food it consumes.

indian meal moths

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Indian Meal Moths Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Are Indian meal moths dangerous?

The Indian meal moth, namely the caterpillar stage, is responsible for the majority of the damage that is produced by this insect.

The eggs of adult females are typically laid a top of an appropriate food supply, which in this case would be stored dry items.

After hatching, the larvae feed on the food that has been provided for them. As the larvae consume the food, they spread their saliva and feces around the surface of the food.

Why do I have an Indian meal moth problem?

Adults do not eat. Their entire purpose in life is to mate and produce offspring, and they constantly search for new nesting grounds. After traveling into a home on previously infested dry goods or finding entry spots around doors or windows, Indian meal moths can quickly become a nuisance inside of a house. Once they are inside, they hurry to deposit their eggs on top of a supply of food that is suited for them.

Indian meal moths are able to enter homes on their own, although the most common way they do so is in dry products that have already been infested after being purchased from a store. They are able to enter homes on their own.

It is common for an Indian meal moth infestation to begin in a food factory either during the packing or processing stages.

When the infected food finally makes its way into your home, the eggs have already hatched, and an infestation will have already begun within your home by the time this happens.

Where will I find Indian meal moth?

The larvae of the Indian meal moth feed on a variety of dry goods. Pests that infest pantries can establish a breeding ground everywhere food is prepared or stored.

Indian meal moths may make their homes in a variety of spaces, including kitchens, pantries, and basements. Inside of a house, it is common for adults to lounge on the walls or window sills.

How do I get rid of Indian meal moths?

If you have discovered adult Indian meal moths in your home, it is highly recommended that you speak with a professional that specializes in pest control.

At 24h Pest Pros, we provide the pest control services that you can depend on to eliminate these pests with the minimum amount of product possible, giving you both peace of mind and a home that is free of pests.

Find out why your friends and neighbors choose 24H Pest Pros to protect their homes and businesses from Indian meal moths and other prevalent pests in your region by reading on. Call us right away!

How can I prevent Indian meal moths in the future?

Indian meal moth issues can be avoided by forming a partnership with 24h Pest Pros and following the preventative measures outlined in the following:

  • Before you buy food from the store, check the package to make sure there are no holes or tears.
  • Take dry products out of their original packing and set them aside. Put the dry products in airtight plastic or glass containers if you can't find airtight plastic.
  • Organize the pantry, and get rid of any food that is stale or has passed its expiration date.
  • Clear the counters and tables of any crumbs that have accumulated.
  • Dry products that are no longer needed should be stored in outdoor garbage receptacles that have lids that may be locked until the day that trash is collected.
  • In order to help prevent problems with Indian meal moths, you should repair any screens that have been ripped and install weather stripping around the windows and doors. Additionally, you should keep all doors and windows shut.
  • Outside lights should be turned off anytime they are not required to be used.
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