GARDEN WEBWORM MOTH

GARDEN WEBWORM MOTH

Achyra rantalis
CRAMBID SNOUT MOTH FAMILY (Crambidae)

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This Crambid moth has a wingspan of approximately 3/4 to 1 inch. It is an orangish-brown color with darker brown markings and a pale tan margin. The colors are variable and can be more orange to brown. The hindwing is usually colored as the forewing, but lighter. This moth was identified by a volunteer expert on the BugGuide website. The larva has a yellowish-brown head. The body can be yellow, pale green or dark green with a light striped down the back. There is a triangle of 3 dark spots on the side of each abdominal segment.

 

This is probably a common moth in fields and gardens. Look for it in late summer beginning in August. Adults are attracted to lights.

 

The larvae feed on clover, alfalfa, strawberries and many other low growing plants. They are active at night skeletonizing leaves. The damaged plants are covered with silken webbing.

 

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