What Do Carpet Moths Look Like?

Have you ever noticed mysterious bald patches on your favourite wool rug? Carpets, those luxurious warm floor coverings we adore, can unfortunately become a breeding ground for a destructive pest – the Carpet Moth, also known as the tapestry moth (Trichophaga tapetzella).

People often mistake carpet moths for common clothes moths, as both species pose a significant threat to your wool rugs, upholstery, and other belongings made from fibres of animal origin. However, identifying carpet moths and understanding their life cycle will help you get rid of these pests and prevent future carpet moth infestations.

Read also: The Most Common Types of Moths in London

Carpet moths were once a widespread household pest, but luckily for us, their presence has significantly declined in recent years. This result is likely due to the increased use of central heating in homes (these moths prefer colder environments) and the growing use of synthetic fibres in carpets, clothing, and insulation. The rising use of insecticides has also played a role in controlling carpet moth populations.

Although less common today, carpet moths are still spread throughout Britain, Ireland, and northern Europe. However, when present, the carpet moth can cause significant damage, particularly in older buildings or those furnished with animal-origin materials. That is why being able to identify them is a crucial step in dealing with the moth infestation in your home or business.

Check also: Why Your Carpet-Free Home Isn’t Safe From Moths?

Carpet moths, like all members of the order Lepidoptera, undergo a complete metamorphosis with four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult, but the larval stage poses the biggest threat to your possessions.

• Egg: The adult female carpet moth lays tiny eggs, often in clusters, on suitable materials like wool, carpets, feathers, or fur. These eggs are well-camouflaged and difficult to detect with the naked eye.
• Larva: This is the most destructive stage of the carpet moths’ life cycle. The larvae emerge from the eggs and transform into small, worm-like caterpillars. During this extended period (which can last anywhere from two months to a staggering two and a half years!), the larvae feed voraciously on protein-rich keratin found in natural fibres, causing significant damage.
• Pupa: Trichophaga tapetzella undergoes transformation inside a cocoon during the pupal stage. This stage is immobile, the organism being wrapped in a protective shell, while the tissues reorganise into the adult form; no feeding takes place. The pupal stage typically lasts around 30 days.
• Adult: The final stage sees the emergence of a fully formed adult carpet moth. Unlike their destructive larvae, adult moths do not feed and live on average for a relatively short period – from a week to a year. Their primary goal is to find a mate and reproduce, perpetuating the cycle.

While adult carpet moths are shy and nocturnal, knowing their appearance helps in early detection. Here are some key features:

• Adult Moth: Slightly larger than their clothes moth cousins, adult carpet moths boast a body length of around 5-8 mm and a wingspan of up to 19 mm. Their two-toned wings make them easy to distinguish – dark brown or black near the head, contrasting with a creamy white (sometimes iridescent) section towards the bottom.
• Eggs: Carpet moths’ eggs are tiny (0.5-1 mm), cream-coloured, and easily blend in with the surrounding material. Their microscopic size and camouflaged appearance make them difficult to see with the naked eye.
• Larvae: They look like creamy white or yellowish caterpillars with brown heads and are about 8-10 mm long.
• Pupae: Enclosed within elliptical brownish cocoons.

Carpet moths’ expensive food preferences often lead to confusion with clothes moths, because both these species share a similar diet. However, carpet moth larvae have a particular fondness for coarser and heavier fabrics compared to their clothes moth counterparts. The carpet moth larvae feed on protein-rich, keratin-based materials, causing extensive damage to:

• Wool carpets, rugs, and garments
• Tapestries
• Feltings
• Horsehair
• Animal pelts
• Furs and feathers

In nature, carpet moths are found in birds’ nests and owl pellets, where larvae feed on discarded feathers and fur.

Carpet moths are primarily nocturnal creatures, favouring dark, undisturbed, and humid environments. They often inhabit the fibres of carpets and rugs, particularly those hidden beneath heavy furniture or stored in infrequently used rooms. Dark corners and closets, especially those housing seasonal clothing or furniture, also provide suitable hiding spots. Additionally, attics, where birds like owls may nest, offer ideal conditions for carpet moth infestations due to the presence of feathers and other organic debris.

Read also: What Attracts Clothes Moths to Your Home?

• Alive adult moths: As we said, carpet moths are very easy to recognise, so if you see fluttering adult moths with signature two-coloured wings, it’s very likely you are dealing with an infestation.
• Threadbare patches: Irregular holes or areas on your carpets could be the handiwork of hungry larvae. Seasonal garments like coats that appear worn thin or have holes can also signify carpet moth infestation.
• Bald patches on taxidermy: If your taxidermy displays start losing their fur or feathers, carpet moths are the most likely culprits.
• Dead adult moths: Spotting dead moths near carpets or clothing clearly indicates an infestation.
• Empty exoskeletons: Finding dried larval casing suggests that adult moths have already emerged and may be laying eggs nearby.
• Larvae: The tiny worm-like carpet moth larvae can be spotted crawling on carpets, clothing, or other infested materials.

If you suspect a carpet moth infestation, here’s what to do:

• Inspect the property: Check carpets, rugs, and other textiles for signs of damage, larvae, or cocoons.
• Clean thoroughly: hoover regularly, paying close attention to hidden areas like under furniture and along skirting boards. This will remove eggs, larvae, and debris that attract moths.
• Call a pest control professional: Don’t underestimate the destructive potential of carpet moths. A moth exterminator can assess the situation and implement effective treatment strategies. They have the expertise and tools to eradicate the problem and prevent carpet moth re-infestations.

It’s crucial to catch a carpet moth infestation early and take immediate action. Follow our tips and seek professional help when needed, and you can protect your belongings against these destructive pests.

If you are dealing with a moth infestation, don’t hesitate to contact Moth Exterminator UK today! Our experts will help identify the moth species in your property and recommend the best moth treatment for your needs.