Square-spot Rustic vs Webbing Clothes Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Square-spot Rustic Webbing Clothes Moth
Scientific Name Xestia xanthographa Tineola bisselliella
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Noctuidae Tineidae
Size 32-38 mm wingspan 6-8 mm body; 12-16 mm wingspan
Habitat Gardens Indoors
Diet Root Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe Worldwide
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Square-spot Rustic

An extremely common autumn-flying moth with a diagnostic square stigma on the forewing. One of the most abundant moths in British gardens. Larvae feed on grasses.

💡

Did You Know?

Often the single most abundant moth species in garden moth traps during September.

Webbing Clothes Moth

A small golden-buff moth whose larvae are the primary insect pest of woolen clothing and textiles. Adults are weak fliers that avoid light, preferring dark closets and drawers.

💡

Did You Know?

Unlike most moths, adults actively avoid light and will run rather than fly when disturbed.