small tabby
Common Namesmall tabby
Scientific NameAglossa caprealis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPyralinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatHuman dwellings, cellars, warehouses, stables, outbuildings, often damp and dark places
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantsdry organic matter, stored food products, hay, straw, fungi
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on a wide range of dry organic materials in dark, damp environments. They pupate in a silken cocoon, often incorporating surrounding debris.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, mottled brownish-grey forewings, and distinctive prominent snout (upturned labial palpi). It is often found indoors in human structures, distinguishing it from many other moths.
Description
A small, robust moth characterized by its prominent, upturned labial palpi, giving it a 'snout' appearance. Its forewings are mottled brownish-grey with indistinct darker markings and two small dark spots.
