What are these flying bugs that cling to lights?

Question: I think I have identified my bug problem, but want to make sure I'm correct. Are there Indian meal moths in Pennsylvania? I really noticed them flying in the house tonight. It appears as if they are a red color under their wings. They cling to light. I see them during the day near my plants and climbing the sunlight-filled windows.

Answer: First of all, yes, there are Indian meal moths in Pennsylvania. Secondly, it would be very hard to make a positive identification with this description alone. There are many flying insects that are attracted to light, natural or otherwise.

If you suspect you have an Indian meal moth problem, look around your pantry and inspect boxes of flour, meal, etc. You should see webbing in the boxes and the larvae crawling around. The adults will range from reddish brown to grey, and the wings will have a two-tone color with the first one-third being darker.

I would strongly recommend you contact us and arrange for an inspection of your home by a highly trained Orkin Pest Specialist. Upon inspection, an accurate determination of the pest can be done. Orkin will develop a customized, scientifically proven treatment plan that best fits your needs.