Alfalfa Looper
Common NameAlfalfa Looper
Scientific NameAutographa californica
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)37.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, black
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, open woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alaska south to Mexico, and east to the Great Plains
Host Plantsalfalfa, clover, beans, peas, lettuce, cabbage, sugar beets, potatoes
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green 'loopers' that feed on a wide variety of plants, moving with a characteristic looping motion. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon on host plants or debris, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the mottled grey-brown forewings with a prominent, often U-shaped or gamma-shaped, silvery-white mark near the discal cell. The overall cryptic coloration helps it blend into its environment.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring a distinctive silvery-white U-shaped or gamma-shaped mark near the center of each forewing. The hindwings are duller brown.
