Question: How long can a moth live?

Answer: Moth lifespans vary significantly among species. Some live only a week, while others, like the Callosamia promethea, can live up to 10 months. The adult stage is generally the shortest, with some lasting only a few days, dedicated solely to reproduction.

Question: Do moths have a role in pollination?

Answer: Absolutely! Moths are key nocturnal pollinators. They have a particular affinity for pale, night-blooming flowers with strong scents. For example, the Hawk moth, with its long proboscis, is especially adept at pollinating tubular flowers.

Question: Do all moths eat clothes?

Answer: Contrary to popular belief, not all moths are interested in our wardrobes. It's primarily the larvae of the Tineola bisselliella, or common clothes moth, that feed on fabrics. Most adult moths don’t eat at all; their focus is on mating and laying eggs.

Question: Are moths just nocturnal butterflies?

Answer: Moths and butterflies belong to the same order, Lepidoptera, but they're distinct. Moths typically have feathery or comb-like antennae and are more active at night, while butterflies have club-shaped antennae and are diurnal.

Question: How do moths navigate at night?

Answer: Moths use a technique called transverse orientation to navigate. They keep a constant angle relative to a distant light source, like the moon, to fly straight. Artificial lights can confuse them, causing their spiral flight pattern.

Question: Can moths hear?

Answer: Yes, many moths have excellent hearing. Some species, like the Greater Wax Moth, have the best hearing in the animal kingdom. They can detect frequencies up to 300 kHz, a range well beyond the capability of human ears and even most other animals.

Question: What do moths eat?

Answer: Moth larvae are known for their varied diet, feeding on leaves, fabrics, or stored products. Adult moths, on the other hand, often don’t eat at all. Those that do usually sip nectar from flowers, similar to butterflies.

Question: Why are some moths attracted to light?

Answer: The attraction of moths to light is still a bit of a mystery. One theory suggests it's related to their navigational methods; lights could mimic celestial cues. Others propose it's an evolutionary mishap, with artificial lights confusing their natural instincts.

Question: Do moths have a sense of smell?

Answer: Moths have an incredibly keen sense of smell. Their antennae are equipped with scent receptors to detect pheromones from great distances. For instance, the male Silk Moth can smell a female up to 7 miles away.

Question: Are moths important to the ecosystem?

Answer: Absolutely! Besides pollination, moths contribute to the ecosystem as a food source for various animals. Their caterpillars are essential in breaking down plant matter, aiding in nutrient cycling within ecosystems.