How Do I Prepare for Moth Control in Fort Collins?
Each year, the shift from winter’s chill to warmer temperatures often means the journey of thousands of migratory Miller moths moving through Colorado, including Fort Collins. They are driven by a search for food in the form of nectar-rich flowers, especially those found at high elevations among the Rocky Mountains. Like the other moths that are found throughout the state, Miller moths are not particularly harmful, but they can be very annoying to have around. Trust Mosquito Squad to help you spend this year’s migratory season in comfort.
Common Moths of Colorado
There are several kinds of pests known to be a nuisance throughout the state.
- Miller moths: These moths are the adult stage of the army cutworm, a species native to the western United States. They typically migrate through Colorado in late spring and early summer as they move toward higher elevations for the summer months. Miller moths are about an inch long, with brown or gray mottled wings that provide excellent camouflage. Although they do not cause structural damage or other harm, they can be annoying, especially when drawn to lights in homes and businesses.
- Indian meal moths: This common pantry dweller is known to infest stored food products such as grains, cereals, nuts, and pet food. They are small, typically about half an inch in length, with reddish-brown wings and a distinctive band across the middle. These moths are most prevalent in warm months but can be found indoors year-round, especially anywhere food is found.
- Clothes moths: These moths are perhaps the most destructive species of moth found in Colorado. Tiny and golden in color, they feed on natural fibers such as wool, silk, and fur, which often causes damage to clothing, upholstery, and rugs. They are most active in dark, undisturbed areas such as closets and storage bins and can reproduce quickly if left unchecked.
Why Do I Need to Worry About Moth Control in Fort Collins?
While moths are generally a harmless nuisance, there are times when they can cause real problems. Indian meal moths, for example, contaminate food supplies while clothes moths, on the other hand, are notorious for the damage they do to textiles and fabrics. Even the harmless Miller moth can become a problem due to their overwhelming numbers and tendency to invade homes in their search for food. Investing in professional moth control in Fort Collins can help prevent property damage, food loss, and other issues.
How Do Moths Get Inside My Home?
Moths can enter homes in several ways. Miller moths often find their way indoors through open windows, doors, or even small gaps in screens. Pantry moths, such as Indian meal moths, usually hitch a ride inside through contaminated food products from grocery stores. Clothes moths are often introduced via secondhand clothing, rugs, or upholstery. Once inside, moths seek out dark, undisturbed areas to lay their eggs.
How Do I Keep Moths Out?
If you want to keep moths from becoming a huge problem in your home, you’ll need to take a few preventative steps. Here are some of the most effective strategies you can implement on your own:
- Seal Entry Points: Keep doors and windows closed unless they are fitted with screens. Any holes in your screens should be repaired promptly. You can also use weather stripping to seal the gaps between the frame and doors that lead outside.
- Reduce Outdoor Lighting: Since Miller moths are attracted to light, it’s important to minimize outdoor illumination during peak migration periods.
- Store Food Properly: Keep pantry staples in airtight containers to prevent Indian meal moth infestations.
- Inspect Secondhand Items: Always check used clothing and furniture for signs of moth activity before bringing them inside.
- Clean Regularly: Vacuum carpets, rugs, and upholstery frequently to remove clothe moth eggs and larvae.
However, despite your best efforts, moth infestations may still occur. When they do, your best bet is to contact Mosquito Squad to try our effective solutions for moth control in Fort Collins.
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