Dusky Grass-veneer
Common NameDusky Grass-veneer
Scientific NameCrambus caliginosellus
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, cream
HabitatGrassy areas, meadows, lawns, pastures, agricultural fields
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to the Great Plains
Host Plantscorn, wheat, oats, rye, timothy, bluegrass, various pasture grasses
Flight PeriodLate May to September (two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the roots and crowns of various grasses, often overwintering as partially grown larvae in the soil. Pupation occurs in silken cocoons underground, with typically two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the dark brown forewings with bold, contrasting white or cream longitudinal stripes. The prominent, forward-projecting labial palps are characteristic of grass-veneer moths. Often rests with wings tightly folded around the body.
Description
A small moth with dark brown forewings featuring prominent, broad white or cream longitudinal stripes, giving it a 'veneered' appearance. It has distinctive long, upturned labial palps.
