Grease Moth

Appearance

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 . 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, and exhibits an overall dark, greyish-brown colour. While the forewings are brownish grey with pale yellowish markings, the top of the head and neck are simply pale yellow. ''A. cuprina'' is also known for its filiform antennae.

Distribution

''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.

Behavior

''Aglossa cuprina'' has similar feeding habits to those of the grains moths. The larval stages feed primarily on dried grain based products including corn meal, whole wheat flour, graham flour, granola, and dried oats. The adults feed on butter, suet and grease, and have even been found in excrement. They have been known to feed on dried remains of other insects as well. The adults fly at dusk between June and July. They hide in dark corners during the day and can be found in stables, outhouses, barns, warehouses, and cellars. They are also attracted to light and sugar.