White-Shouldered House Moths, Endrosis sarcitrella

Widespread throughout Britain and more associated with stored foodstuffs and food warehouses, although mixed infestations do occur. Occurs commonly in domestic premises, probably originating from dry birds’ nests constructed in the eaves and roof spaces.

The adult female, when mated, lays up to 200+ eggs individually or in groups, by preference into crevices in the structure or substrate of the vicinity of the larvae food material. After 7 to 25 days the eggs will hatch into minute white larvae, which immediately start feeding on the available food material. The larvae only appear at night to feed.

Although commonly occurring in domestic premises, this species is seldom the cause of serious damage to fabrics and textiles. More likely it will be feeding in the dust and debris collecting beneath carpets and other floor coverings.