Pantry Moths & Birdseeds
Pantry moths are also known as grain moths, flour moths or Indian meal moths. These pests infest and spoil kitchen staples and pet foods, especially wild birdseed. Pantry moth adults are small, gray or brown. Larvae hatch from webbed cocoons. Does this Spark an idea?
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Entry Point
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Pantry moths may be carried into the house in packages of wild birdseed. Lower standards go into the harvest and packaging of mixes intended for outdoor feeding of wild birds than for products intended for consumption by humans or domestic pets.
Control
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If moths have eaten into seeds, there is little nutrition left for birds. Don't hesitate to discard infested packages. Take spoiled cake mixes, flour, dried beans, nuts, cat food and dog food out of the kitchen in sealed garbage bags.
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Traps
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Pheromone traps use chemical bait on cardboard tents containing non-drying glue. The bait mimics the scent of female pantry moths, attracting and capturing males and disrupting the reproductive cycle. Effectiveness wanes in about 12 weeks.
Safety
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Pheromone traps are nontoxic and safe to use in food areas and around pets. While pet birds cannot be poisoned by moth bait, they might chew the tents or be injured if feathers get stuck. Keep the traps out of their reach.
Prevention/Solution
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Freezing birdseed will kill moths, larvae and eggs in approximately five days. Purchase seeds in small packages appropriate for use in a short time. Do not buy bags that feel sticky, a sign of moth infestation.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of Mike Baird
