Moths

A Mexican "Jumping" Bean jumps because a moth larva living inside the bean squirms when it gets warm.

The female moth lays between 60 and 300 eggs

There are about 13,000 species of moths in North America and about 165,000 species in the world.

Most moths are nocturnal but seem to be attracted to light (for example, a porch light or a fire). One reason is that because moths are nocturnal, they navigate, or find their way around by using the moon as a point of reference. Moths can become confused by any other light source and they basically get "lost". As a result, they typically stay where they are, making it look like they are attracted to the light.

Indian Meal Moth

The Indianmeal moth was given its name after an insect scientist found it feeding on corn meal, also known as Indianmeal. They typically live from two to six months.

Size: 5/8"

Shape: Elongated, oval

Color: Copper reddish

Legs: 6

Wings: Yes

Antenna: Yes

Common Name: Indianmeal Moth

Kingdom: Animalia

Phylum: Arthropoda

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidotera

Family: Pyralidae

Species: Plodia interpuctella

DIET

Indianmeal moths feed on dried fruits, grains, seeds, nuts, chocolate, candies, bird seed, dog food, powdered milk, dried red peppers and candy.

HABITAT

Attracted to the light, these bugs are found in bright places where food is stored like restaurants and grocery stores.

IMPACT

Moths infest foods and can contaminate food products by leaving skin and waste behind.

PREVENTION

Store food in sealed containers.

Discard infested foods in outdoor trash bins.

Clean infested cupboards thoroughly with a vacuum and soap and water.