Moths, Everywhere.
And not even cute moths either, the kind seen in cartoons materializing from Wimpy’s outturned pockets or Scrooge McDucks wallet. No, these are little dull brown dusty things, like winged cobwebs or maybe heavenly halo’ed dust bunnies, flying off to wherever dust bunnies are eternally blessed.
Anybody have any idea how I can rid myself of these pests?
Hmm, we had those too…
not that I know how we got rid of them, of course! We’re not even completely rid of 'em, either.
Sorry.
They’re probably Indian Meal Moths. I had them once and while they are tenacious, a little persistence will get rid of them. Basically, they’re eating grain and other goodies. Ugh, worms. I hate them (major vermiphobia).
Below are some steps Iowa State suggests for getting rid of them. (And I just want to add - check for larvae on the ceiling. I found some crawling out of a crack along a light fixture. But the worst was finding them in the folds of a lamp shade. I turned on the light and saw what looked to be long rice lying in the folds. Then I noticed them moving. Oh barf.)
From Iowa State:
Control of any stored food pest requires locating and eliminating infested item(s). All potentially infested foods should be checked. The insects may be in unopened boxes or containers. Infested items can be thrown away or salvaged by freezing for 1 week or heating in a 140 degree oven for 15 minutes.
Empty and thoroughly vacuum clean cupboards or shelves holding infested items, paying particular attention to cracks and corners. Vacuum cleaning picks up hiding insects and spilled or infested material. Empty the vacuum cleaner or discard the vacuum cleaner bag after use to prevent reinfestation.
Insecticide sprays are not recommended for controlling insects in stored food cupboards. Washing shelves with detergent, bleach, ammonia or disinfectants will not have any effect on insect pests.
As a precaution against reinfestation, you may want to store susceptible foods in sealable glass, metal or heavy plastic containers or in the refrigerator or freezer until you are convinced the infestation is gone.
Note: this information is valid for Iowa. It may or may not apply in your area.
They totally freak me out. Infact any thing that flies freaks me out. Especially the kind that are attracted to lights. What you need is a can of very cheap deodrant and a zippo lighter. It makes an impressive flame thrower. Toast the fuckers (but not when they’re sitting on your drapes.)
One flew into my coffee when I wasnt looking & I ate it.
You could eat them, they taste kind of nutty, slightly chewy with a hint of sweetness.