Glassy Cutworm Moth
Common NameGlassy Cutworm Moth
Scientific NameApamea finitima
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)38
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, agricultural fields, open woodlands
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central United States, southern Canada)
Host Plantsgrasses, various herbaceous plants, cultivated crops
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as cutworms, feed on the roots and stems of grasses and other herbaceous plants, often cutting seedlings at the soil line. They typically overwinter as partially grown larvae and pupate in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsLook for the overall grey-brown cryptic pattern with prominent, often pale-outlined, reniform and orbicular spots on the forewings. The specific shape and coloration of these spots, along with the dark basal dash, are key identifiers.
Description
This moth has mottled grey-brown forewings with intricate darker markings, including distinct reniform and orbicular spots that are often outlined in pale white. The hindwings are typically a uniform pale grey-brown.
