Alfalfa Webworm Moth
Common NameAlfalfa Webworm Moth
Scientific NameLoxostege commixtalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, grasslands, open disturbed areas, meadows
Geographic RangeWidespread across North America
Host Plantsalfalfa, clover, sugar beet, corn, various legumes and broadleaf weeds
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as webworms, feeding on host plants within silken webs they construct. They pupate in the soil, and there are typically multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, mottled brown and tan forewings with distinct wavy dark lines, and the characteristic 'snout moth' appearance with prominent, upturned labial palps.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown and tan forewings featuring darker wavy lines and streaks, and a somewhat pointed head due to prominent labial palps.
