Bird Nest Moth
Common NameBird Nest Moth
Scientific NameTinea pallescentella
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyTineinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsdark brown, cream, yellowish-brown
HabitatHuman dwellings, outbuildings, bird nests, animal nests, stored product environments
Geographic RangeEurope, North America, Australia, New Zealand, and other parts of the world
Host Plantsorganic detritus, bird nests, animal hair, feathers, stored food products, textiles
Flight PeriodYear-round indoors, typically spring to autumn outdoors
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on a wide range of organic detritus, including animal products and stored foods. They pupate in silken cocoons, often incorporating debris, and can have multiple generations per year, especially in warm indoor environments.
Identification TipsLook for the contrasting pale yellowish head and the dark basal half of the forewing, which transitions to a lighter, mottled pattern on the outer half. Its small size and association with organic materials are also key indicators.
Description
A small moth characterized by a distinctive pale, fluffy yellowish head, dark brown to black basal forewings, and lighter, mottled yellowish-brown to cream outer forewings.
