There’s nothing worse than having a moth infestation and seeing all your beautiful clothes left munched and full of holes, but if you’re a historic National Trust house with some important collections from the past, the damage these little critters can cause can be particularly devastating.

However, it seems that webbing clothes moth populations are on the decrease around England, Wales and Northern Ireland, with the conservation charity’s annual insect pests report revealing that numbers dropped by almost 40 per cent last year, off the back of record temperatures and drought conditions.

Overall, it was found that insect pest numbers were down by three per cent in 2022, although many houses did record high numbers of carpet beetle larvae (which feed on feathers, fur, wool and silk), while silverfish numbers were up 14 per cent.

The east of England in particular was found to have a silverfish problem, perhaps down to the region’s drier weather sending these pests inside to find damp foodstuff on which to feast.

Commenting on the findings, Hilary Jarvis – assistant national conservator – said: “This was surprising news. We had thought climate change would be a boon for this moth, which originates from South Africa and is no stranger to heat.

“But changing weather patterns are challenging our thinking. Was it simply too hot – and perhaps more importantly, too dry – for these particular moths to thrive in the warmest year on record?”

It will certainly be interesting to see if this trend continues and if we see a similar story this year, should hotter temperatures on a par with 2022 return later in the year. 

If you do find yourself with an infestation at any time, however, you can always get in touch with us to book a moth fumigation appointment. We’ll be able to get your property fighting fit in no time!