American ear moth facts for kids
Quick facts for kids American ear moth |
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The American ear moth, known scientifically as Amphipoea americana, is a type of moth. It belongs to a large group of moths called the Noctuidae family. A scientist named Adolph Speyer first officially described this species in 1875.
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All About the American Ear Moth
Where Does This Moth Live?
The American ear moth lives across a very wide area. You can find it from one side of the United States to the other, especially in the northern parts. It also lives in southern Canada. This moth even makes its home in the Northwest Territories. In the western U.S., it can be found as far south as California. In the eastern U.S., it lives as far south as Georgia.
What Does the American Ear Moth Look Like?
The American ear moth has a wingspan that measures between 28 and 35 millimeters. This is about the length of a few small paperclips placed end-to-end. Adult moths are usually seen flying around from July to September. The exact time depends on where they live.
What Do American Ear Moths Eat?
The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, have a special diet. They mostly eat different kinds of grasses and sedges. Sedges are plants that look a lot like grasses. Sometimes, these larvae might also feed on the roots of corn plants.
Different Types of American Ear Moths
Scientists have found two main types, or subspecies, of the American ear moth. They are slightly different depending on where they live.
- Amphipoea americana americana
- Amphipoea americana pacifica
