Basal Herpetogramma Moth
Common NameBasal Herpetogramma Moth
Scientific NameHerpetogramma basalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorspale orange, yellowish-tan
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, grasslands, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Canada south to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsgrasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are grass feeders, developing through several instars before pupating. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall pale yellowish-orange coloration, the presence of a distinct discal spot, and faint, wavy postmedial and subterminal lines on the forewings. The hindwings are similar but often paler.
Description
A small moth with pale yellowish-orange to tan wings, featuring faint wavy transverse lines and a few small, distinct dark spots on the forewings.
