Are moths dangerous to humans?

Moths are nocturnal, flying insects that primarily feed on flower nectar. They are completely inoffensive creatures that can't bite or sting. Far from pests, moths are important to local ecosystems; they are food for a variety of insect-eating predators and effective pollinators for a number of plant species. read more

Moths and butterflies are potentially dangerous to people in one context: eating them. While most butterflies and moths are likely non-toxic to hungry humans, a few species -- like the familiar monarch butterfly (Family Nymphalidae) -- feed on poisonous or unpalatable plants as larvae. read more

In addition to Rich Pollack’s answer, there is one moth that can be deadly to humans - the giant silkworm moths of South America belonging to the genus Lonomia, particularly the species Lonomia obliqua and Lonomia achelous. read more

Moths are considered dangerous to humans and pets. Contact with food and textiles that has been infested by moths can lead to allergic reactions. read more

While most butterflies and moths are likely non-toxic to hungry humans, a few species -- like the familiar monarch butterfly (Family Nymphalidae) -- feed on poisonous or unpalatable plants as larvae. Monarch caterpillars feed largely on milkweed, which contains cardenolides -- poisons that act on heart muscle. read more

Moths are considered dangerous to humans and also for pets because they contaminate food and certain types of pet food (such as dry pellets) with their feces and their white cocoons – left from the caterpillar. read more

A moth that can be deadly to humans and strips the leaves off oak trees has been found breeding in Britain in what scientists are saying is the result of climate change. read more