Tan-edge Loxostege
Common NameTan-edge Loxostege
Scientific NameLoxostege cereralis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, cream, brown
HabitatOpen fields, grasslands, agricultural areas, disturbed sites
Geographic RangeNorth America (southern Canada to Mexico), parts of Europe and Asia
Host Plantsalfalfa, clover, sugar beet, corn, beans
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are greenish caterpillars that feed on a wide variety of herbaceous plants, often rolling leaves. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon in the soil or leaf litter, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the small size, the mottled grey and white forewing pattern, and the characteristic dark subterminal line that gives it the 'tan-edge' common name. The pale hindwings are also a good indicator.
Description
A small moth with mottled grey and cream forewings, featuring a distinct dark brown or tan subterminal line and a paler median area. The hindwings are typically a uniform pale grey or whitish.
