Garden Webworm Moth
Common NameGarden Webworm Moth
Scientific NameLoxostege reversalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorstan, light brown, dark brown
HabitatGardens, agricultural fields, open disturbed areas, grasslands
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread, especially eastern and central regions)
Host Plantsalfalfa, beans, corn, pigweed, lamb's-quarters, clover, various vegetables and weeds
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as webworms, construct silken webs on host plants where they feed gregariously. Pupation occurs in cocoons in the soil, and there are typically multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the tan-brown forewings with a mottled pattern, a dark discal spot, and a wavy subterminal line. The prominent, forward-projecting labial palps are characteristic of this family.
Description
A small, tan to light brown moth with mottled forewings featuring darker brown spots and a distinctive wavy subterminal line. It possesses prominent labial palps that give its head a 'snout-like' appearance.
