Bug Identifier
Common Grass Moth
Community identification

Common Grass Moth

Crambus sp.

Order & Family
Lepidoptera: Crambidae
Size
Wingspan typically 15mm - 30mm
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

Natural Habitat

Grassy fields, lawns, marshes, and meadows

Diet & Feeding

Larvae (crambus sod webworms) feed on roots and stems of grasses/turf; adults mainly consume nectar or do not feed

Behavior Patterns

Nocturnal; strongly attracted to artificial lights at night; during the day, they rest vertically on blades of grass with wings tightly wrapped

Risks & Benefits

Primary benefit is as a food source for birds and bats; some species are considered lawn pests because the larvae can cause brown patches in turf