Wood moths are widely distributed in most of the households and other structures. This is a tiny insect that can be very destructive to furniture, wood works and anything that has wood products.
It is in this article where we are going to explain to you what the wood moths really are or the signs of an infestation and how you can control these types of home pest eradication process.
Length of Antennae, Proboscis, and Life Cycle of Wood Moth
Wood moth is the mature stage of the woodworm which before has undergone egg stage, larva stage, pupa stage, and flying beetle stage. At this stage, larvae feed and develop inside the wood causing tunneling and weakening of the structural integrity for years.
Distinctions Between The Wood Moth And Other Wood Destroying Insects
It is thus necessary to differentiate between wood moths and other insects that cause damage to wood, for instance the termites. Morphologically, it is easy: Termites are like very small, almost transparent ants.
It is important to note that it is difficult to find moths in wood, since when they change from pupa to moth (beetle), they immediately leave the tunnels and fly away to continue their life cycle, reproduce and lay eggs again in some crack in some piece of furniture or beam.
As we have said before, it is the larvae that remain in the wood during their development for a very long time, sometimes for years.
The final difference between termites and wood worms is the work that they do on and to the wood the evidence of their work. And last, but not the least, sometimes, it becomes possible to listen to the larvae of the wood moth while it is feeding, but the case is different in termites.
Signs of Wood Moth Infestation
Below, we will see what the signs of wood moth infestation are, so that if you are faced with such a plague, you will know how to identify it.
Visible Damage To The Wood
One of the most obvious signs of a wood moth infestation is visible holes in the surface of furniture, beams and other items made of this material. These holes are exit holes. Remember that the woodworm in its adult phase becomes a moth (flying beetle) and flies away to continue its life cycle.
Sounds And Other Clues
Sometimes, as we have discussed above, subtle sounds can be heard coming from infested wood, such as a slight creaking sound, which is caused by the larvae moving and feeding. The presence of wood dust around furniture or wooden structures is also a common indicator.
Methods To Eliminate Wood Moth
It is true that there are several methods that the homeowner can use to get rid of wood moths but it is also true that none of those methods will work in all cases. The method of giving such treatment therefore arises out of several conditions including the size of the pest and the space or objects in which it is located. It is not the same thing to treat a portable bedside table as it is to treat the beams in a house.
Homemade And Natural Solutions
- Or the freezing of small objects in household appliances.
- However, there is no evidence that they can be effective.
Chemical And Professional Treatments
A wood moth infestation requires chemical treatment (injecting and brushing with product) when a piece cannot be moved, such as beams or paneling. In this situation, a 24-hour safety period must be observed during which no one can remain in the property.
In the case of transportable wooden pieces, the most appropriate treatment is to use heat or cold, depending on the characteristics of the object.
In cases of extensive infestation, do not forget to get the help of pest control Professionals Company, who can offer you more effective and safe solutions. It is advisable to seek the help of pest control professionals, who can offer you more effective and safe solutions.
Preventing Future Infestations
If you have suffered a wood insect infestation, there is no reason for another one if you follow the following recommendations.
Wood Maintenance And Care
To prevent future infestations, it is crucial to keep the wood in good condition. This includes regular treatments with varnishes, waxes and/or sealants that protect the wood.
It is also advisable to protect the backs of cabinets made of natural porous wood. On the other hand, you should pay attention to possible knocks and chips. Why? Because any crack can be used by beetles to lay their eggs.
And finally, keep the relative humidity of the home below 60%, since above this value, the development of moths is encouraged.
Preventive Measures at Home
In addition to wood care, there are other measures that can be taken at home to prevent the appearance of wood moths.
Regular cleaning is always important to prevent any type of infestation. Using mosquito nets on windows will prevent adults from entering the house to lay their eggs. Another way of prevention would be to repair any water leaks that cause dampness as soon as possible and, finally, keeping furniture with some separation from the walls promotes ventilation.
Although wood moths can be a problematic pest, understanding their characteristics and signs of infestation, along with implementing effective treatment and prevention methods, can control and minimize the damage they cause. With a proactive approach and proper maintenance, it is possible to protect your space.
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