Scraped Pilocrocis Moth
Common NameScraped Pilocrocis Moth
Scientific NamePilocrocis ramentalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, cream
HabitatOpen fields, gardens, disturbed areas, and woodlands where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeEastern and Southern North America, Central America, and South America.
Host Plantsragweed (Ambrosia spp.), sunflower (Helianthus spp.), various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Eggs are laid on host plants, larvae feed on leaves, pupation occurs in a cocoon, and adults emerge to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its light brown wings with unique, wavy, pale cream transverse lines and a darker subterminal band. The overall size and typical snout moth characteristics are also helpful.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with light brown to tan wings featuring prominent, irregular, wavy pale cream lines and a slightly darker subterminal band, providing cryptic camouflage.
