Brown Cutworm
Common NameBrown Cutworm
Scientific NameAgrotis ipsilon
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, grasslands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (nearly worldwide)
Host Plantscorn, soybean, cotton, tobacco, various vegetables, grasses
Flight PeriodMultiple broods, active year-round in warmer climates; migratory in temperate regions, typically spring to autumn
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plants, and larvae (cutworms) feed at night, often cutting young plants at the soil line. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic dagger-shaped mark (claviform stigma) and kidney-shaped mark (reniform stigma) on the forewings, along with the overall cryptic grey-brown coloration. The hindwings are usually plain white to light grey with darker veins.
Description
This moth has mottled grey-brown forewings with distinct black markings, including a dagger-shaped mark and a kidney-shaped spot, providing excellent camouflage. The hindwings are typically paler, often whitish with darker veins.
