Robust Tabby
Common NameRobust Tabby
Scientific NameAglossa caprealis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan
HabitatHuman dwellings (cellars, warehouses), stables, dry sheltered outdoor areas, often near stored products or detritus.
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, North Africa, introduced to North America
Host Plantsdetritus, dried leaves, straw, hay, stored grains, fungi
Flight PeriodJune to August (outdoors), year-round (indoors)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are scavengers, feeding on a wide variety of dry organic matter and detritus. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often incorporating surrounding debris.
Identification TipsLook for its broad, triangular, cryptically patterned forewings in shades of brown/grey, often with a noticeable darker subterminal band and wavy lines. Its robust appearance for a moth of its size is also a key feature.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with broad, triangular forewings displaying a mottled pattern of browns, greys, and tans, providing excellent camouflage. It often has indistinct wavy lines and a darker subterminal band.
