Cotton Bollworm Moth
Common NameCotton Bollworm Moth
Scientific NameHelicoverpa zea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, yellowish-white, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, open disturbed areas, grasslands
Geographic RangeNorth America, Central America, South America
Host Plantscorn, cotton, tomato, soybean, tobacco
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid singly on host plants. Larvae (known as corn earworms or cotton bollworms) feed internally on fruits, seeds, or growing tips. Pupation occurs in the soil, and there are multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the dull brownish forewings (which can vary in shade and markings) and the distinctive pale hindwings with a prominent, broad dark band along the outer margin. Antennae are simple and thread-like.
Description
A medium-sized moth with variable brownish or tan forewings, often with faint markings, and pale yellowish hindwings featuring a broad, dark marginal band.
