Finding a few moths in my feed....

[Pet Duck Boy]

Will it lower the nutritional content dramatically? Right now the moths are in both 50 Lb feed bags, the layer and starter. I find 2-3 when I open the bags every 2 days or so. I guess I'll have to find some containers to keep the feed secure. The feed is nice and dry though. Also, I don't want to dump the feed, it cost me $25 which I'm not getting back. Can I still use it?

 

[flgardengirl]

It could mean the feed is old. I bought 2 bags from TSC and they smelled stale and had moths and cocoons in them. The first time I complained and they gave me a new bag. The second one I got they acted like it was my fault when I had just bought it the day before. That was it for them. I started getting my feed somewhere else and haven't had that problem anymore.

 

[Pet Duck Boy]

I'm sure the moths came from my house, the feed is in my garage. I've seen these moths numerous times in old blankets and such. The feed doesn't smell stale. I was just wondering if the moths would lower the nutrional quality of the feed.

 

[sires6]

You have coddling moths. Come in all grain products not properly stored. Could be form your garage, could be from the store. There should be a production date on the bag. If you are bothered by the moths, then freeze the grain. Freeze the grain for 24 hours and that will kill adults, eggs and larva. If it doesn't bother you, then just feed the rations and the bugs! I'm sure the birdbrains would love it!

 

[A.T. Hagan]

If there are only a few then go ahead and use the feed so long as it hasn't gotten wet. If there are a lot then I'd eat the loss and toss the feed.

If you're not already doing so keep all of your feed in some sort of sealed container. I prefer metal trash cans because they are rodent proof, but plastic cans will work if you don't have mice in your garage.

As soon as that feed is gone and before you bring fresh feed home thoroughly clean the whole area. Then put the fresh feed directly into your storage containers and keep the lids on when not in use. This should keep the infestation out of your new feed.

.....Alan.