Hi, I found this critter in the house. Is it dangerous? It would be an acute angle feather moth according to wikipedia. I would like to release it again or what should I do with it? Would be rare in Belgium.
Answer
Dear Miriam,
this is a feather moth (family Pterophoridae). This is a small family of moths whose caterpillars feed on all kinds of plant species, such as sea lavender, false sage, bindweed, coltsfoot, etc.
These moths certainly do not cause damage in the home. It’s hard to tell from this photo how far this is an acute angle feather moth; all moths in this family are very similar. To be 100% sure about the species, a microscopic preparation should be made of the genital apparatus. You can safely release the moth, so that it can continue its way in nature.
kind regards,
Hans
Answered by
Hans Castels
identification of pest insects in agriculture and horticulture, stock goods and homes
Burg. van Gansberghelaan 96 box 1 9820 Merelbeke
http://www.ilvo.vlaanderen.be
.