Oblique Grass Moth
Common NameOblique Grass Moth
Scientific NameCrambus agitatellus
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyCrambinae
Wingspan (mm)21
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, brown, black
HabitatGrassy areas, meadows, lawns, fields
Geographic RangeEastern North America, west to Texas, north to Ontario
Host Plantsgrasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodMarch to November (southern range), May to September (northern range)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are known to feed on various species of grasses, often living in silken tubes at the base of the plants.
Identification TipsLook for the pale tan forewings with subtle, oblique brownish lines and scattered small black dots. The overall slender body and typical grass moth resting posture (wings wrapped around the body) are also characteristic.
Description
A small, slender moth with light tan to beige forewings featuring faint, oblique brownish streaks and scattered small black dots. The hindwings are typically paler.
