Sooty Scoparia Moth
Common NameSooty Scoparia Moth
Scientific NameScoparia ambigualis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyScopariinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, grasslands, gardens, and damp areas where mosses and lichens are prevalent.
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, parts of Asia, and introduced to North America.
Host Plantsmosses, lichens, roots of herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on mosses and lichens, typically in damp environments, before pupating and emerging as adult moths, often having two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the characteristic mottled grey-brown-white forewing pattern, and often a prominent dark discal spot and wavy subterminal line.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey, brown, and whitish forewings, often appearing dusty or 'sooty' due to its dark markings.
