Girdler Moth
Common NameGirdler Moth
Scientific NameAgrotis venerabilis
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, black, tan
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, grasslands, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, grasses, garden vegetables
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cutworms, feeding on a wide variety of herbaceous plants and grasses, often hiding in the soil during the day. Pupation occurs in the soil, with one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the robust body, the complex dark brown forewing pattern with a prominent pale median band (the 'girdle'), and its late summer to fall flight period.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth with dark brown to reddish-brown forewings featuring intricate patterns of lighter tan or buff streaks and lines, often with a distinctive pale median band.
