Lawson's Night Moth
Common NameLawson's Night Moth
Scientific NameApamea commoda
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, white
HabitatWoodlands, forests, open fields, meadows, grasslands
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf states
Host PlantsPoa (bluegrass) species, various other grasses
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are cutworms that feed on the roots and stems of grasses, often remaining subterranean. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the soil in spring, with adults emerging in summer.
Identification TipsLook for the overall dull, mottled appearance of the forewings with blended markings. The pale, wavy subterminal line and uniformly dull hindwings can help distinguish it from similar *Apamea* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, featuring mottled shades of brown, gray, and whitish markings, often with indistinct reniform and orbicular spots. The hindwings are typically dull grayish-brown.
