Dune cutworm facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dune cutworm |
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| Scientific classification | |
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| Genus: |
Euxoa
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| Species: |
E. aurulenta
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| Binomial name | |
| Euxoa aurulenta (Smith, 1888)
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The dune cutworm (scientific name: Euxoa aurulenta) is a type of moth that belongs to the Noctuidae family. This family is also known as the "owlet moths." A scientist named Smith first officially described this species in 1888.
You can find the dune cutworm in many parts of North America. Its range stretches from Ontario in Canada, west to Alberta and Washington. It also lives south into the United States, including states like Illinois, Nebraska, Colorado, and Arizona.
About the Dune Cutworm
Size and Life Cycle
The dune cutworm moth has a wingspan of about 35 to 39 millimeters. That's roughly the length of two standard paper clips placed end-to-end!
Adult moths are usually seen flying from May to July. These moths have one generation each year. This means that the eggs laid by the adults in one year will grow into new adults the following year.
What Do They Eat?
The young forms of the moth, called larvae (or caterpillars), likely eat different types of dune grass. These are grasses that grow in sandy areas, like near beaches.
For example, in Michigan, dune cutworm larvae have been found very close to beach grasses. These include Ammophila breviligulata, also known as American beachgrass, and Calmovilfa longifolia. These grasses are important food sources for the growing caterpillars.
