Grass Webworm Moth
Common NameGrass Webworm Moth
Scientific NameCrambus vulgivagellus
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, lawns, agricultural fields
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host Plantsgrasses, corn, wheat, oats, rye
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on grass blades. Larvae (webworms) construct silken tunnels at the base of grass plants, feeding on the foliage. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil in spring. Adults emerge in late summer/fall.
Identification TipsKey features include the relatively narrow, elongated forewings with their characteristic streaked and mottled brown pattern. They often rest with wings wrapped tightly around the body, appearing cylindrical, and have prominent labial palps forming a 'snout'.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with a slender body and elongated forewings. Its wings are typically light brown or tan, often marked with darker brown longitudinal streaks and scattered dark spots, giving a mottled appearance.
