Bee Moths and Wax Moths

Insect Information Service

Bee Moths and Wax Moths

Class: Insecta

Order: Lepidoptera

Family: Pyralidae

Subfamily: Galleriinae

The bee moth Aphomia sociella and the wax moth Galleria mellonella are common widespread British species. In both species the caterpillars feed on honeycomb and form dense masses of cocoons or ‘galleries’.

The Bee Moth Aphomia Sociella

This moth invades and lays eggs in the nests of bumble bees and wasps, usually preferring nests above the ground. Larvae of this species feed at first on the old cells and debris of the nest structure, later attacking the comb and the brood itself, often riddling the nest with silklined tunnels. They finally form, when fully grown, dense silken cocoons in large compact masses later in the year. These overwintering larval cells can be found anywhere but are commonly found in sheds and outhouses, often under the floorboards. After hibernating as larvae, pupation occurs in spring and the adult moths emerge around June to August and after mating, continue the life-cycle.

The Wax Moth Galleria mellonella

Larger than the bee moth this species can be a serious pest of beehives. It is known to attack honey bees but probably also feeds in the nests of other bees and wasps. As with the bee moth the caterpillars of this species feed on honeycomb and form silk galleries in the nest it is attacking. Again this species overwinters as larvae in large silken cocoon which can sometimes be found in large numbers in sheds or under floorboards (see top image). The adults fly from June to October.

References –

· British Pyralid Moths by Barry Goater 1986, Harley Books

· British Moths and Butterflies by Chris Manley 2008, A&C Black

This leaflet has been produced by the Insect Information Service of the Natural History Museum. For details of our identification and advisory services, please contact: The Enquiries Manager, The Angela Marmont Centre for UK Biodiversity, The Natural History Museum, Cromwell Road, London, SW7 5BD. Telephone 0207 942 5045; Email: .