Oblong Sedge Borer Moth
Common NameOblong Sedge Borer Moth
Scientific NameCapsula oblonga
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, light brown
HabitatWetlands, marshes, bogs, wet meadows, and other areas with abundant sedges.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to the Gulf states, and west to the Great Plains.
Host PlantsCarex spp. (sedges), Juncus spp. (rushes)
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding internally within the stems of sedges and rushes. They typically overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall pale, uniform straw-yellow to light brown coloration, robust body, and its strong association with wetland habitats where sedges are prevalent. Wing markings are often very subtle.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with a furry body and forewings that are uniformly pale straw-colored to light brown, often with faint darker mottling and subtle dark specks.
