The Sod Webworm has a wingspan of 1 to 1.25 inches. The forewing is variable brown to pale yellow-orange with light gray along the inner margin. Black dashes mark the fragmented median and subterminal lines. The surface is sprinkled with dark brown scales. The fringe is checkered dark gray and white. The hindwing is broader than forewing. It is light brown to pale grayish-white. The larva is pinkish-white to yellowish to light brown. The head is yellowish-brown, brown or black. This moth was identified by volunteer expert at the BugGuide website.
The Sod Webworm moth is widespread and common. It has been photographed in Fontenelle Forest in late August 2013 early June 2014 coming to artificial lights. It frequents lawns and golf courses.
Larvae feed on grasses. The species overwinters as a young larva below the soil line among roots of weeds and grasses in silk-lined tubes. Pupation occurs in May in underground cocoons made of silk, bits of plants and soil. Adults emerge about 2 weeks later. They are weak flyers, active at dusk and live only a few days. The most severe damage to turf is in July and August when the grass is not actively growing.
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