Citrus Cutworm
Common NameCitrus Cutworm
Scientific NameAgrotis ipsilon
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, grasslands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (nearly worldwide)
Host Plantscitrus, corn, cotton, tobacco, various vegetables, grasses, legumes
Flight PeriodYear-round in warm climates; spring to fall in temperate regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as cutworms, are nocturnal and feed at the base of plants, often severing them at ground level. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for cryptic grey-brown forewings with typical noctuid markings, including reniform and orbicular spots, sometimes accompanied by a black dagger-like mark. Hindwings are generally pale with darker veins and margins.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, often featuring indistinct dark spots and lines, and paler hindwings.
