Common Grass Moth
Common NameCommon Grass Moth
Scientific NameOrocrambus vulgaris
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, cream
HabitatGrasslands, pastures, tussocklands, open grassy areas
Geographic RangeNew Zealand (endemic)
Host PlantsPoa, Festuca, Lolium, Agrostis
Flight PeriodOctober to April (multiple generations)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as sod webworms, living in silken tunnels at the base of grass plants and feeding on roots and stems. Pupation occurs in the soil, and there are typically multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent, upturned labial palps and the cryptic brown/tan forewing pattern with streaky markings. It is commonly found in grassy habitats throughout New Zealand.
Description
A small, slender moth with a prominent, upturned snout (labial palps). Its forewings are light brown to tan, marked with darker brown speckles and subtle longitudinal streaks, providing excellent camouflage.
