Flying black gnat? - Ask Extension
Wondering what this tiny flying insect is. Find them in closets, living room and hallways. No plants in the house. Maybe a moth?
Knowledgebase
Flying black gnat? #650627
Asked June 14, 2020, 2:57 AM EDT
Wondering what this tiny flying insect is. Find them in closets, living room and hallways. No plants in the house. Maybe a moth?
County Outside United States
Expert Response
It is a Clothes Moth adult.
Check your natural fabrics, particularly wool and mohair - sweaters, winter coats, dresses & suits, etc. Also, check any boxed clothing that you may have brought into the house within the last six months.
Dry cleaning will kill both the eggs and pupa (cocoons). Hot, soapy water will also kill the egg cases and pupa, however most all fine garments require dry cleaning only.
If you can fine the one and only source of food, you may want to get rid of it. If you can't, dry clean or wash everything that is a natural fabric and put them in sealed garbage bags. Cotton clothing such as jeans and t-shirts that are worn and washed often are not an issue.
The moths are attracted to lights and windows - a household insecticide or fly swatter will take care of them. Do not spray an insecticide on garments that might be damaged. This publications is a good one: https://entomology.ca.uky.edu/ef609
If you want to read more about the egg cases go to:
Good luck with this.
