Tacoma Cutworm Moth
Common NameTacoma Cutworm Moth
Scientific NameTrichordestra tacoma
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, white, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, forests, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America (British Columbia south to California, east to Colorado and New Mexico)
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to September (often bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (cutworm), pupa, and adult. Larvae are typically polyphagous, feeding on various plants.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive forewing pattern with a mix of brown, gray, and white, prominent dark-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, and a characteristic jagged subterminal line.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown, gray, and white forewings, featuring prominent dark reniform and orbicular spots, and a jagged subterminal line.
