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Grease moth

Grease moth

Aglossa cuprina

A species of Aglossa

The egg of A. cuprina is an off white rounded oval. During the larval stage, A. cuprina has a brownish head and greyish body. The A. cuprina larvae also have black mandibles and a black peritreme (part of the integument of an insect which surrounds the spiracles). They can be distinguished from A. caprealis larvae by setal differences. The pupae are reddish brown with six curved, hooked setae. The moth has a wingspan that averages about an inch and a half (38 mm), and exhibits an overall dark, greyish-brown colour. While the forewings are brownish grey with pale yellowish markings (much like those of a tabby cat, hence the lesser-used common name), the top of the head and neck are simply pale yellow. A. cuprina is also known for its filiform (thread-like) antennae.

General Info About Grease moth
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Attributes of Grease moth
Colors
Brown
Black
Yellow
Habitat
A. cuprina has been found in Europe, Asia, Australia, North America and South America. A. cuprina is distributed throughout eastern North America and sightings have been recorded in California, Arkansas, Arizona, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. The moth stage is generally found in early summer between the months of May and August.
They tend to inhabit areas around or in human habitation and buildings. When found in homes, they are generally found in the kitchen and more specifically in the pantry where their choice food source is stored. They are also commonly found in areas where dried grain products are stored, for example, warehouses and areas of grain elevators that remain undisturbed.
Adult Food Sources
Nectar, bird droppings, sap, decaying matter, fruit juice
Larva Food Source
Dead animal matter, dried fish, cheese, wax, wool
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Grease moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
The Grease moth can bore into the wood and may damage its structure, or even harm the health of trees. Stay alert if you frequently observe it in your house.
Pollinator
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Distribution Area of Grease moth
A. cuprina has been found in Europe, Asia, Australia, North America and South America. A. cuprina is distributed throughout eastern North America and sightings have been recorded in California, Arkansas, Arizona, Connecticut, the District of Columbia, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Texas and Wisconsin. The moth stage is generally found in early summer between the months of May and August. They tend to inhabit areas around or in human habitation and buildings. When found in homes, they are generally found in the kitchen and more specifically in the pantry where their choice food source is stored. They are also commonly found in areas where dried grain products are stored, for example, warehouses and areas of grain elevators that remain undisturbed.
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Predators of Adult Grease moth
Bats, birds, spiders, mantises
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Interesting Facts About Grease moth
Despite its dainty appearance, grease moth can consume wax, making it a rare species that thrives in beehive environments.
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Scientific Classification of Grease moth
Tips for Finding Grease moth
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Youth Habitat of Grease moth
Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Rotting and Decaying Matter
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Habitat Preferences of Grease moth Through Different Life Stages
The larvae of grease moth are typically found in dark, sheltered areas where organic material like grains, flour, or other stored food products is abundant, as these provide a food source. Searching for larvae involves inspecting potential food sources and storage areas in pantries or warehouses. Adult grease moth are drawn to lights and may be found around lamps or windows at night. To locate adults, surveys at night using artificial light sources can be effective. Pupae may reside in similar environments to larvae, often within the food source or in nearby crevices. To find pupae, one should closely examine the larval habitat, searching through the food material and the surrounding area.
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When is the Best Time to Observe Grease moth
Dusk or after dark is the most suitable time for finding adult grease moth as they are nocturnal and most active during these hours.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe Grease moth
Mild to warm temperatures with low wind are the most suitable weather conditions for finding grease moth as they are less active during cold or inclement weather.
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How and Where Can You Find Grease moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Grease moth eggs are typically laid in clusters on suitable host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves of potential food sources for small, round or oval eggs that may be laid in a pattern or grouped together.
Larva Grease moth larvae can be found on or near their food sources. Look for signs of feeding, such as holes in leaves, and check the surfaces and undersides of leaves or around the base of the plant.
Pupal Grease moth pupae may be found in concealed locations like in crevices, under loose bark, or in leaf litter. Look for camouflaged pupae that blend in with their surroundings.
Adult Grease moth adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. Set up a light trap with a white sheet or use a black light to attract them during suitable times and weather conditions. Observing near fermented bait can also be effective.
Are Grease moth harmful?
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