American Brindle Moth
Common NameAmerican Brindle Moth
Scientific NameApamea dubitans
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, open fields, meadows
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsgrasses
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cutworms that feed on the roots and stems of various grasses. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its remarkable camouflage, resembling a broken twig when at rest, and its characteristic posture with wings folded tightly along the body. The mottled grey and brown patterns are also distinctive.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic, mottled grey and brown wings that are folded tightly along its body, giving it the appearance of a broken twig or bark.
