Wool Moth
Common NameWool Moth
Scientific NameTinea pellionella
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyTineinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, brown
HabitatHuman dwellings, museums, bird nests, animal burrows
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (worldwide)
Host Plantswool, fur, feathers, silk, dried insects, stored food products
Flight PeriodYear-round indoors; spring to autumn outdoors
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae construct a portable silken case, often covered with debris, which they carry as they feed on keratinous materials like wool and fur.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive white head, dark thorax, and the mottled forewings with a clear white patch. The presence of a silken larval case is also a key indicator.
Description
A small moth characterized by a white head, dark thorax, and mottled forewings that feature a prominent white patch near the base.
