Metoeca foedalis
Common NameMetoeca foedalis
Scientific NameMetoeca foedalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, grasslands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas and Kansas)
Host Plantsgrasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on various grasses, pupation likely occurs in a cocoon near the ground, and adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, the distinctive mottled brown and white forewing pattern with irregular dark lines, and its typical triangular resting posture common to many grass moths.
Description
A small moth with cryptically patterned forewings, featuring a mottled mix of white, light brown, and dark brown/black wavy lines and irregular patches. The hindwings are generally paler with some darker markings.
