Tampa Moth
Common NameTampa Moth
Scientific NamePococera robustella
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyEpipaschiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, hickory, maple, birch, beech, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-tiers or web-makers, feeding on the foliage of various deciduous trees and shrubs within silken shelters. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features for identification include the distinctive robust, upturned labial palpi that form a 'snout,' its slender body at rest, and its generally plain brownish coloration with subtle patterns.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its prominent, upturned snout-like labial palpi. Its forewings are typically brownish with a subtle reddish tint and faint darker markings, while the hindwings are paler.
