Lesser Vagabond Sod Webworm Moth
Common NameLesser Vagabond Sod Webworm Moth
Scientific NamePediasia trisecta
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, brown
HabitatLawns, meadows, pastures, grassy fields, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread in eastern and central US, southern Canada)
Host Plantsgrasses, corn, wheat, turfgrasses
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as sod webworms, live in silken tunnels in the thatch layer of grasses, feeding on grass blades at night. They pupate in cocoons in the soil or thatch, with multiple generations occurring annually.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the light brown forewings with characteristic dark longitudinal streaks, and its habit of resting with wings tightly folded along its body, giving it a cylindrical appearance. The prominent blue eyes are also a helpful diagnostic.
Description
This is a small, slender moth with light tan to brownish forewings marked by several distinct dark brown longitudinal streaks. It has prominent, slightly iridescent blue eyes and a fuzzy head.
