Variegated Midget
Common NameVariegated Midget
Scientific NameEublemma bacallayi
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyEublemminae
Wingspan (mm)16
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, reddish-brown
HabitatOpen fields, meadows, disturbed areas, roadsides
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsragweed, goldenrod
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed within the flower heads and developing seeds of various Asteraceae plants, undergoing complete metamorphosis through pupation.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the variegated brown and grey forewing pattern with prominent dark markings, and a distinct pale, wavy subterminal line. The dark terminal line on the hindwings is also a useful feature.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown, reddish-brown, and grey forewings, featuring distinct dark, somewhat triangular markings and a pale, wavy subterminal line.
