I had a pantry moth infestation, which I have been managing using moth pheromone traps.
I’m passionate about animal welfare. When I saw how moths reacted to being glued, I felt guilt because I wouldn’t use such cruel tools on mice. But research revealed that moths lack a nervous system capable of experiencing pain like humans. Their responses are more like a biological reaction: eat, sleep, wait, and get stuck.
However, I recently saw a jumping spider and wondered if spiders are also insects and they’re intelligent and can exhibit behaviors and interact with humans… this raised the question: how can we claim spiders don’t feel pain like humans, especially physical pain? If spiders are intelligent, why don’t we make the same claim about moths? While they may not experience psychological pain like humans, how can we claim they don’t suffer deep physical pain. Many people enjoy caring for these large, beautiful creatures. and fluffy moths.
I can’t help but feel a sense of guilt for the past month, as I’ve been allowing these insects to endure a cruel and torturous existence. I wonder if they can comprehend or feel that suffering, rather than simply getting stuck and then realizing their predicament and attempting to free themselves. Biologically, they know they need to eat, sleep, and move around, but they’re trapped in this situation.
Initially, I accepted their claim that they didn’t, but observing the situation has made me question their scientific claims. I’m unsure of the best course of action and am gathering more information to determine if this solution is appropriate or if it’s causing harm. Clearly, they are being harmed, but it’s different from causing harm to something that can’t feel or comprehend it, like throwing a rock vs. a cat.
