White-blotched Balsa Moth
Common NameWhite-blotched Balsa Moth
Scientific NameMesapamea stipata
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, brown, cream
HabitatGrasslands, meadows, open fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread in northern US and southern Canada)
Host Plantsbrome grasses (Bromus spp.), other grasses (Poaceae)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers in various grasses. They overwinter as eggs or young larvae, pupating in the soil in spring.
Identification TipsLook for the overall cryptic gray-brown coloration and the prominent, often whitish, blotch on the forewing, which gives the moth its common name. It can be confused with other *Mesapamea* species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled gray-brown forewings featuring a distinctive pale, often whitish or cream-colored, blotch near the reniform spot. The hindwings are typically plain grayish.
