A plague of giant moths invades Spain again: it already affects four communities

The huge moths have reappeared in force in Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia and the Valencian Community. Although they are not dangerous in themselves, they can cause allergic reactions and damage food and clothing. Spain is once again facing a plague of giant moths just as summer begins. As happened in 2024, the insects have started invading homes and streets in different parts of the country, especially in Madrid, Castilla-La Mancha, Murcia and the Valencian Community. Accounts from concerned residents are multiplying, reporting that the moths not only flutter around the house, but also hide among clothes and even appear in bed.

These moths, larger than usual, are attracted by heat and humidity, and their proliferation is typical of May and June. Although they do not bite and are not poisonous, their scales can cause allergic reactions in sensitive people and, in their larval stage, they can contaminate poorly sealed stored food, causing possible digestive disorders. In addition, they are known to cause irreparable damage to stored fabrics and clothing.

To combat them, it is recommended to reinforce cleaning in wardrobes and cupboards, seal food containers tightly and use natural remedies such as sachets of lavender, bay leaves, mint or citronella, which are unpleasant to these insects. Specific products such as traditional mothballs or commercial repellents designed to control them can also be used. Although this is a seasonal invasion that usually subsides within a few weeks, prevention is key to keeping them at bay during their peak activity.