“Not only do birds and bats consume moths at every stage of the insects' life cycle, so do lizards, small rodents, skunks and even bears,” Mizejewski says. Other insects, including hornets and ants, prey on moth caterpillars, and both spiders and beetles feed on moth pupae tucked away in their cocoons.
The insect and parasitoid species are adult ground beetles, stinkbugs, spiders, harvestmen, ants, and tiny wasps. Among the predators are mice, chipmunks, shrews, voles, skunks, raccoons, and squirrels. Bird species are orioles, starlings, robins, crows, black-capped chickadee, nuthatches and blue jays.
Bats are major predators of moths. They find moths in the dark through echolocation, by emitting high pitched squeaks and listening for the echo. In response to this threat, many night-flying moths have evolved ear-like organs which can pick up the squeaks of the bats and allow them to take evasive action.
Moths dislike the scent of cedarwood. You can use cedar blocks, cedar chips, or cedar oil to deter them. Place these in your closets, drawers, or other moth-prone areas. Like cedarwood, moths are also repelled by the scent of lavender. You can use dried lavender sachets or lavender essential oil to keep them away.
Scrub areas you suspect to be infested - using an effective moth killer spray, scrub and clean including crevices and corners. Remove infested items - Items that can't be cleaned should be discarded. Dust and vacuum - floors, crevices and anywhere you suspect moth activity.
Peppermint oil has been known to effectively repel Pantry Moths. So, you may want to wipe down your shelves with this fragrant oil. Rosemary, clove, lavender, thyme, and Eucalyptus may also be helpful. Each of these natural repellents for pantry moths is safe to use around food items!
Most Moths species are nocturnal, meaning that they are active during the nighttime. Unfortunately, this makes them perfect prey for insectivorous bats, who are also primarily nocturnal. In addition to using their eyes, bats use echolocation to navigate toward their prey.
These moths are the adult form of Sod Webworms, a common lawn pest. The larval stage of these moths is a voracious pest of lawns. The are also much more difficult to find than their flying, adult counterparts. Sod Webworm larvae overwinter in underground tunnels beneath your lawn.
Dryer sheets typically contain chemicals such as linalool, beta-citronellol, and geraniol, which are known to have some insect-repellent properties.
Cedar oil is strong and effective and the moths don't like it! Other good essential oils to repel moths include lavender, rosemary, lemon, bergamot, sage, and mint.
The most common and effective method for killing all stages of clothes moths in clothing, blankets, and other washable articles is to thoroughly launder them for 20 to 30 minutes in water that is at least 120°F.
Lizards, and other reptiles such as chameleons, and amphibians – frogs and toads – are major predators. And of course birds, many of which specialise in eating all stages of Lepidoptera. Moths are eaten in huge numbers by bats.
Sevin® Insect Killer Concentrate, used with a pump-style sprayer, is ideal for treating lawns and surrounding shrubbery, where moths may hide, and spot treating areas with sod webworm activity. Give special attention to exposed thatch and grass surrounding suspected damage.
The most common way to contract a moth infestation is by carrying infected items into the home. Food and clothing items that have larvae or eggs hiding within them can introduce a moth problem when you least expect it. Unsealed containers in our pantries are perfect targets for pantry months.
The entire cycle takes roughly 4-6 months. So, a successful moth battle is twofold: kill the tiny, voracious larvae eating through your natural fiber textiles, and kill the moths before they mate, lay more eggs and begin the life cycle again.
Lavender (Perennial)–This well-known purple perennial is not only fragrant, but also well known to repel mosquitos, moths, flies, and fleas. Plant lavender in sunny areas outside or place dried bouquets around your home.
So, they don't have a designated place to rest. Instead, they look for temporary places to shelter and recharge. Moths will sleep in any spot that seems safe and quiet. They prefer shade over sunlight so they will find areas like bushes, tree branches, cracks, or other similar spots.
“Not only do birds and bats consume moths at every stage of the insects' life cycle, so do lizards, small rodents, skunks and even bears,” Mizejewski says. Other insects, including hornets and ants, prey on moth caterpillars, and both spiders and beetles feed on moth pupae tucked away in their cocoons.
Vinegar is a fantastic natural moth-killing option because its acidity makes it capable of killing moth eggs and removing lingering pheromones. You can also safely spray a vinegar and water solution on most fabrics, although you might want to do a spot test first to make sure that any fabric dyes will not be affected.
Using Citronella Oils for Moth Prevention
Use this handy trick to keep moths and other pests away from your outdoor areas. In the morning spray or paint some citronella oils on your light bulbs. As night falls they should be dry.
Lavender — Lavender is a widely-loved moth repellent for good reason. Its floral scent is delightful to humans but repulsive to moths. Our 'Protect Me' Scent Bags can be placed in closets and drawers to protect your garments. Plus, they impart a lovely fragrance to all surrounding clothes.