Calico Pyralid
Common NameCalico Pyralid
Scientific NamePyralis calidalis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Primary Colorstan, brown, black
HabitatDisturbed areas, human habitations, barns, warehouses, sometimes woodlands and fields.
Geographic RangeWidespread in North America, Europe, and Asia.
Host Plantsdried plant materials, stored grains, seeds, hay, dried animal products
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are scavengers, feeding on a wide range of dried organic materials. They pupate in a silken cocoon, and the species has multiple generations annually.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled tan and black forewing pattern, often with a prominent dark discal spot and a wavy subterminal line. Its small size and association with human structures can also be clues.
Description
A small moth with forewings mottled in shades of tan, brown, and black, featuring irregular dark patches and lines, giving it a 'calico' appearance.
