Bristly Cutworm Moth
Lacinipolia renigera
The larvae are covered in tiny, stiff microspines that give them a 'bristly' texture and protect them from soil predators.
- Scientific name
- Lacinipolia renigera
- Taxonomy
- Animalia › Arthropoda › Insecta › Lepidoptera › Noctuidae › Lacinipolia
- IUCN Red List status
- Least Concern
- Population trend
- stable
- Biome
- grassland
- Habitat
- Meadows, grasslands, agricultural fields, gardens, and open woodlands.
- Diet
- Larvae feed on herbaceous plants like clovers, dandelions, and grasses; adults drink flower nectar.
- Range
- North America, United States, Canada, Mexico
- Size
- Wingspan of 20 to 30 mm
- Lifespan
- 1 year (adults live 1-2 weeks)
- Active
- nocturnal
- Threats
- Pesticide use, light pollution, and habitat fragmentation.
- Safe to approach?
- Harmless. If you encounter this moth or its caterpillar, it is safe to observe from any distance. They do not bite, sting, or possess irritating hairs. If handled, gently nudge them onto a leaf.
The Kidney-spotted Minor or Bristly Cutworm ( Lacinipolia renigera ) is a species of moth of the Noctuidae family. It is endemic to most of North America with the exception of Yukon and Alaska.
Photo: Nick Block, CC-BY, via iNaturalist
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