| Scientific name | Plodia interpunctella |
|---|---|
| Group | Moths & Butterflies |
| Size | 8–10 mm (up to about 0.39 in) |
| Colors | Tan, Brown and Red |
| Legs | 6 legs |
| Wings | Yes |
| Where found | Pantry or stored food and Kitchen |
| Most active | Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter |
| Bites | No |
| Stings | No |
| Risk level | Nuisance |
How to identify it
The Indian meal moth is a small member of the moths & butterflies group. Wings covered in fine scales and a coiled, straw-like tongue. Check for these three features:
- Two-toned wings, cream at the base and rusty bronze at the tips
- Silky webbing and clumps in stored food
- Adults fly in zigzag paths in kitchens at night
About this bug
The most common pantry moth, with wings that are pale gray near the body and coppery bronze at the tips. Larvae spin silk webbing in grains, nuts, cereal, birdseed and dried fruit.
You'll usually find Indian meal moths in pantries and stored food and in the kitchen. They are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter.
Is it dangerous?
Pantry moths don't bite and aren't toxic; infested food should be thrown away.
Our rating: Nuisance, meaning it is a nuisance pest but not a health threat to most people.
When you'll see Indian meal moths
Indian Meal Moths are most active in spring, summer, fall and winter. In spring, overwintering adults become active and many species lay their first eggs. Summer heat speeds up development, so populations can grow quickly. In fall, many bugs look for shelter, and some move toward or into buildings. In winter, activity continues mainly indoors in heated spaces.
Typical places to check: pantry or stored food and kitchen.
About moths & butterflies
The Indian meal moth is one of the moths & butterflies. Moths and butterflies have wings covered in tiny scales and go through complete metamorphosis. The caterpillar stage does all the feeding and damage, while adults sip nectar or, in some species, don't eat at all.
In pantries and closets, the moths you see flying are a signal. The real problem is the larvae feeding in food or fabric nearby.
What to do about it
- Throw out every infested package and check nearby sealed items
- Vacuum shelves and cracks, then wipe with soapy water
- Use pheromone traps to catch males and monitor progress
Bugs that look similar
Size: Indian Meal Moths are larger, reaching 10 mm, while webbing clothes moths top out around 8 mm.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Indian meal moth look like?
Two-toned wings, cream at the base and rusty bronze at the tips. Adults measure 8–10 mm (up to about 0.39 in).
Does the Indian meal moth bite or sting?
It does not bite. It does not sting. Pantry moths don't bite and aren't toxic; infested food should be thrown away.
Where do Indian meal moths live?
Indian Meal Moths live in pantries and stored food and in the kitchen.
When are Indian meal moths most active?
Mostly in spring, summer, fall and winter.