European Corn Borer Moth
Common NameEuropean Corn Borer Moth
Scientific NameOstrinia nubilalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsyellowish-brown, tan, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeNative to Europe; introduced and widespread in North America, parts of Asia, and Africa
Host Plantscorn, peppers, beans, potatoes, cotton, millet, hops
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations depending on region)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in masses on host plants. Larvae hatch and bore into plant stalks, ears, or fruits, causing significant damage. They pupate within the plant material, and adults emerge to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsLook for the yellowish-brown coloration with distinct wavy, darker lines across the forewings. Males are generally darker and smaller than females, and the overall cryptic pattern helps them blend with vegetation.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with yellowish-brown to tan forewings marked by distinctive darker, wavy transverse lines and sometimes a kidney-shaped spot, providing excellent camouflage.
