Southern Armyworm Moth
Common NameSouthern Armyworm Moth
Scientific NameSpodoptera eridania
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorstan, brown, gray, white
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, Central America, South America, Caribbean; migrates north to parts of the Midwest and Northeast US
Host Plantscotton, corn, soybean, tomato, potato, alfalfa, various weeds
Flight PeriodMultiple generations year-round in tropical areas; spring to fall in temperate regions (e.g., March-November in Florida, May-October further north)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plants. Larvae, known as armyworms, are highly polyphagous and vary in color, often marching in large groups. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grayish-brown forewings with indistinct markings and a pale subterminal line. The hindwings, though not visible in this image, are typically white with a dark margin. Larvae are distinctive armyworms.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grayish-brown to tan forewings, often featuring subtle darker markings and a pale subterminal line. The hindwings are typically plain white with a dark border.
