The clothes moth larvae are most destructive to articles that are left undisturbed for long periods of time. The adult moths prefer darkness. They readily fly and attempt to hide when exposed to light. They are colorless except for dark head capsules. Development may be as rapid as a month under favorable conditions to as much as a year.
Clothes moths are nocturnal and prefer to avoid lighted areas.
They run to hide when their infestation site is suddenly exposed. Carpet beetles may be found at windows, seeking light to go outside for flower nectar. Eggs and larvae of fabric-infesting moths and beetles may be carried into the home on articles containing wool or animal fibers. Secondhand clothing, home furnishings, or wool scraps may be infested when you bring them home. Once inside, both clothes moths and carpet beetles are capable of moving from one location to another.