Carpet Moth or Tapestry Moth - Trichophaga tapetzella

Phylum: Arthropoda - Class: Insecta - Order: Lepidoptera - Family: Tineidae

This moth used to be frequently found indoors where it would feed on carpets, curtains and various articles of clothing. It is far less common today probably because most homes are now centrally heated and the temperatures are too high.

Carpet Moths make their homes in birds' nests where the larvae feed on dead and discarded matter. The larvae live in cases which they transport with them, (rather like some aquatic Caddis fly species)

The adult moths are easily recognized by their two-coloured wings - black towards the head and irridescent white behind.

The wingspan of the Carpet Moth is around 19 mm.

The adult moths fly at night from May and August.

Distribution

This moth is widespread and common throughout Britain, Ireland and is found throughout northern Europe.

Picture: Rob Petley-Jones

Studying butterflies and moths...