Kansas is home to many moths, many of which may not be found anywhere else in the world.
From the colorful Luna Moth to the fast-flying Hummingbird Moth, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in Kansas’s moth population.
In this blog post, we’ll look at some of the most common types of moths in Kansas and discuss their characteristics, behaviors, and where you can find them.
Whether you’re an amateur entomologist or just curious about the critters that populate the prairie state, this post has something for everyone! Kansas has a wide variety of moth species.
With over 600 types of moths in the state, it can be hard to know which ones are most common.
This post will give you an overview of Kansas’s most common types of moths.
1. Hahncappsia Moth
Hahncappsia moths (Hahncappsia spp.) are a type of small, colorful moth on our list of moths in Kansas.
They can be identified by their unique wing patterns, which feature bright yellow and orange dots along the edges.
The larvae feed on many plants, including grasses and trees.
Hahncappsia moths are active at night and can often be seen fluttering around lights or flowerbeds.
These moths benefit the ecosystem in Kansas, as they help pollinate plants and provide food for other animals.
They also lay eggs on plants, which can help to protect them from pests. If you see a Hahncappsia moth in Kansas, it’s a sign that your garden or landscape is healthy and thriving!
2. Imperial Moth
The imperial moth (Eacles imperialis) is one of the most striking types of moths in Kansas.
These stunningly colored moths have large yellow and black wings with orange circles throughout. The hind wings are usually all yellow, with a small black band at the edge.
They can reach up to 6 inches in width and 4 inches in length, making them some of the largest moths found in the state.
Imperial moths are found in grasslands and prairies near streams or rivers.
They are mostly active during the summer but can be spotted in the spring and autumn.Â
The imperial moths’ caterpillars feed on various trees, including oak, willow, birch, poplar, and elm.
They can be seen feeding during the day and night and are easily identified by their bright yellow and white stripes.
Imperial moth caterpillars are an important food source for many animals, including birds, lizards, and frogs.Â
Meanwhile, the adult moths feed on nectar from flowers such as milkweed, dandelion, and thistle.
Imperial moths are important pollinators, and their presence is essential to the health of many ecosystems.
3. Inornate Pyrausta Moth
The Inornate Pyrausta Moth (Pyrausta inornatalis) is one of the different types of moths in Kansas.
This species of moth has brown wings and grayish-brown coloring on the body. It is usually found in agricultural and wooded areas.
They feed on plant pollen and are important pollinators for many native plant species.
The Inornate Pyrausta Moth is considered a common sight in the state and can be found most of the year.
This moth species can be identified by its lack of patterns and distinct eye spots on the wings. It is a medium-sized moth and tends to be more active at night.
4. Labyrinth Moth
The Labyrinth Moth (Phaecasiophora niveiguttana) is a member of the Pyralidae family, which is common in Kansas.
This moth species is known for the intricate markings on its wings, which resemble a maze or labyrinth.
The Labyrinth Moth is found in dry, open areas such as prairies and grasslands and can be seen flying during the summer months.
The adult moth has a wingspan of around two inches and is typically yellowish-brown with various dark markings.
The larvae of this species are small, brown caterpillars that feed on grasses, sedges, and other vegetation.
The Labyrinth Moth is an important part of the ecosystem in Kansas. This species is an important pollinator of many plants and helps to disperse their pollen.
Additionally, there are types of moths in Kansas that provide food for birds and other wildlife.
Although not considered endangered, their populations may decline due to habitat loss and fragmentation.
It is important to protect the habitats of these moths to ensure their future survival.
5. Io Moth
The Io Moth (Automeris io) is a type of moth found in Kansas.
It is a large, day-flying moth with striking yellow and black markings on its wings. The female is usually larger than the male and has more color.
Due to its bright colors, it is one of the most recognizable moths in the area. The larvae of this species feed on oaks, willows, maples, and various types of grass.
The Io Moth is a great example of the different types of moths in Kansas!
6. Leafroller Moth
Leafroller Moths (Various spp.) are one of the various types of moths in Kansas. They come in various colors and sizes.
They prefer habitats such as wooded areas, grasslands, and gardens.
These moths get their name from their habit of rolling up leaves to lay their eggs on.
They are considered important agricultural pests because their larvae can damage crops.
Leafroller moths have been reported in many areas of Kansas, including Wichita, Topeka, and Lawrence. They come in various colors, from light brown to dark gray.
The body is covered in scales, and the wingspan is about 1.5-2 inches. Adult moths feed on nectar and plant juices.Â
The larvae feed on various plants, including corn, wheat, oats, and garden vegetables.
They are known to cause damage to young fruit trees and can also affect the quality of crops by consuming leaf tissue.
Control methods include using insecticides and mechanical methods such as pruning and handpicking the larvae.
7. Luna Moth
The Luna Moth (Actias luna) is one of the most recognizable types of moths in Kansas.
It is known for its large wingspan, pale green color, and yellow crescent mark on each side of the body.
This moth is active in the summer and can be seen in woods and meadows. They prefer oak, willow, sweetgum, and birch trees.
The Luna Moth is a great pollinator as it feeds on nectar from flowers.
The life cycle of the Luna Moth consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Females lay their eggs singly on the leaves of their host plant.
When the larvae hatch, they feed on the leaves, eventually creating a cocoon for pupation.Â
After the pupa stage, adults emerge with a wingspan of up to 4 inches. Adult Luna Moths do not feed and only live for about a week. Despite this, they are important pollinators that help keep ecosystems healthy.
8. One-Eyed Sphinx Moth
The One-eyed Sphinx Moth (Smerinthus cerisyi) is a type of moth that can be found in Kansas.
It is also one of the many types of moths in Kansas. It is a large, impressive species with a wingspan of up to five inches.
They are usually light gray or brownish and feature several dark spots on their wings.
These moths feed on various plants and shrubs, including apple, cherry, willow, and many other species.
This species’ larvae can often be found in June and July around the bases of trees and shrubs.
These moths are an important part of the Kansas ecosystem, helping pollinate many different plant types.
They are also important food sources for many animals, such as birds, bats, and small mammals.
As such, they are integral to the state’s biodiversity and must be protected to keep it thriving.
9. Orange Virbia Moth
The Orange Virbia Moth (Virbia aurantiaca) is a moth species in Kansas.
This moth is orange and black and has a wingspan of around 2 inches. The female of the species is slightly bigger than the male, with a wingspan of up to 3 inches.
It is mainly found in prairies and open grasslands and urban areas and gardens.
The Orange Virbia Moth, one of the types of moths in Kansas, primarily feeds on pollen, nectar, and other small insects.
They are active mostly during the night when they search for food.
These moths do not cause any significant damage to crops or plants, but their larvae can be a nuisance when they feed on leafy greens and other vegetation. Fortunately, the larvae are easily controlled with pesticides.
10. Ornate Bella Moth
The Ornate Bella Moth (Utetheisa ornatrix) is a type of moth that can be found in Kansas.
It is a member of the Arctiidae family, and its adults have white to light brown wings with orange and black stripes.
The adults of these particular types of moths in Kansas also have reddish-brown antennae and bodies.
These moths are usually active during the evening and nighttime and are usually seen resting on flowers or trees.
The larvae of these moths feed on various kinds of plants and shrubs, including milkweed, goldenrod, and sunflowers.
The Ornate Bella Moth is an important part of the Kansas environment. It provides food for other animals and helps pollinate flowers.
Furthermore, this moth also plays an important role in controlling pest populations as its larvae eat aphids, spider mites, and other small insects.
As such, it is essential to maintain a healthy balance of this species in Kansas to ensure a stable environment for all living things.
11. Pondside Pyralid Moth
The Pondside Pyralid Moth (Elophila icciusalis) is a pyralid moth species found in Kansas.
It is a large, yellow, and brown moth with white markings on its wings.
This moth prefers to feed on aquatic vegetation such as water plants and algae and is most active during summer.Â
The Pondside Pyralid Moth is an interesting species due to its long life cycle and ability to overwinter in its larvae form.
This species, on our list of moths in Kansas, can be found in various habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and meadows.
The Pondside Pyralid Moth is an important part of Kansas’ ecosystem and is essential in maintaining a healthy and balanced environment.
12. Plume Moth
The Plume Moth (Hellinsia homodactyla) is a species of moth found in the state of Kansas.
It is a member of the family Pterophoridae, also known as the plume moths. It is a medium-sized moth with wings spanning between 25 and 40 millimeters.
The forewings are generally light gray, while the hindwings are white or yellowish.Â
The body is mostly black, with white, yellow, and orange markings on its sides.
The Plume Moth, which is also one of the interesting moths in Kansas, primarily inhabits dry fields, grasslands, and other open areas.
They feed on flower nectar, often found on wildflowers like thistles and daisies.Â
Moreover, they can be seen flying during the day when they come to feed on flower nectar. At night, the moths rest on plant stems and leaves.
They are active from spring through fall and most commonly seen during summer.
13. Rustic Sphinx Moth
The Rustic Sphinx Moth (Manduca rustica) is a large, heavy-bodied moth found throughout Kansas.
The wingspan is typically 4-5 inches and mostly active in the evening or night.
The upper wings of these moths are usually grayish-brown or yellowish-brown, while the lower wings are yellowish-orange with two dark spots near the wing tips.
These moths feed on various plants and shrubs and are important pollinators.
When fully grown, they form cocoons that remain in the ground until the following year.
They then emerge as adults and continue to feed on plants before reproducing and laying eggs in late spring or early summer.
Because of their size and interesting markings, Rustic Sphinx Moths are a common sight in Kansas and have become one of the more recognizable species of moths in the state.
14. Spanish Moth
The Spanish Moth (Xanthopastis timais) is a moth native to North America, found primarily in the central region of the United States and Canada.
This species of moth is usually brown and white but can range from dark gray to yellowish-brown, depending on the season and area where it is found.
The Spanish Moth has a wingspan of 1.5 to 2.5 inches and has distinctive yellow spots on its wings.
The adults typically fly at night. However, they are also active during the day, especially in the spring when they are looking for mates.
This moth species is considered an agricultural pest because it feeds on various crops, including alfalfa, clover, corn, soybeans, tobacco, and others.
They are types of moths in Kansas that can cause considerable damage to crops, particularly if they are present in large numbers.Â
Control measures include chemical insecticides or biological controls such as beneficial insects or parasitic wasps.
Care should be taken when using these control measures as some may harm other beneficial insects or wildlife.
15. Abbott’s Sphinx Moth
Abbott’s Sphinx Moth (Sphecodina abbottii) is a large and stunning moth that can be found in Kansas.
These moths have an average wingspan of about 3.5 inches and a body that is dark brown with cream stripes and spots.
They are active at night, flying from flower to flower to feed on nectar. During the day, they hide on the underside of leaves or branches.
Abbott’s Sphinx Moths are attracted to outdoor lights, so they can often be found around porch lights or street lamps.
They are not considered dangerous and do not cause any damage to plants or crops.
These moths usually fly between April and June, although some may stay in the area longer.
To prevent Abbott’s Sphinx Moths from entering your home, make sure windows are screened and doors are closed.
If you find these moths in your home, you can remove them using a vacuum cleaner or simply open the window and allow them to escape outside.
16. Gold Moth
The gold moth (Basilodes pepita) is a species of moth that is found in the state of Kansas. This type of moth is quite small, measuring only about 1 cm in length.
Its body is yellowish-orange, and it has black wings with white spots.
The gold moth is attracted to bright lights and flowers, often congregating around light sources at night.
They are not considered dangerous and usually do not cause any damage to plants or crops.
However, if they become too numerous, gardeners may need to use insecticides or other methods to get rid of them.
They are also included in this list of several types of moths in Kansas.
17. Four-Barred-Gray Moth
The Four-barred-Gray Moth (Aethalura intertexta) is native to Kansas and other parts of the Midwest. It is a medium-sized moth that has a wingspan of one and a quarter inches.
Its wings are mainly light brown with four dark stripes on its forewing, hence its name. Its abdomen is light gray, and it has tufts of hair along its body.
Moving on, it can be found in woodland and grassland habitats, where it feeds on various wildflowers, shrubs, and grasses.
On our list of the different types of moths in Kansas, this species is active at night and attracted to lights and windows. While it does not pose any danger to humans, it can be a nuisance when it enters homes.Â
Homeowners can prevent infestations by closing up any potential entry points, keeping lights off at night, and installing window screens.
If you do encounter an infestation, the best way to get rid of it is to vacuum it up or use a pesticide.
18. Giant Leopard Moth
This type of moth (Hypercompe scribonia) can be found in the eastern part of Kansas.
They are one of the largest types of moths in Kansas, with wingspans measuring up to two inches.
They have an olive green color, a white base, and many black spots on the wings.
Adults feed on nectar, while the caterpillars feed on various types of plants, such as hickory, walnut, and grape vines.
They are mostly inactive during the day but become active at night. These moths can be attracted to outdoor lights, so it is important to keep outdoor lighting to a minimum or use yellow lights that do not attract moths as much. They also tend to be more active in the evening during humid days.Â
It is important to make sure they do not come inside, as they may damage fabrics and carpets in the home.
If they do get inside, they should be vacuumed or gently removed with a cloth.
19. Abbreviated Button Slug Moth
The Abbreviated Button Slug Moth (Tortricidia flexuosa) is one of the most common types of moths in Kansas.
This species is a night-flying moth with an elongated body and light brown to black wings.
It can be identified by the three to four brown lines that run across its wings, which resemble buttons.Â
The larvae of this species feed on various plants, including grasses, legumes, and trees.
The Abbreviated Button Slug Moth is a beneficial insect that pollinates various flowering plants and prevents pests from damaging crops.
While this moth is not dangerous, it can be a nuisance as it can be attracted to lights, which can cause them to accumulate around porches and windows.
20. Ailanthus Webworm Moth
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth (Atteva aurea) is one of the most common types of moths in Kansas.
This species has a wingspan that ranges from 12 to 20 mm and is gray with reddish-brown mottling. The larvae of this moth feed primarily on trees, including the Ailanthus tree.Â
The larvae create webs on tree leaves, which can become a nuisance for some homeowners.
The adults of this species are active in the spring and summer months and are attracted to light sources, particularly porch lights or streetlights.
It is important to note that this moth species is not considered dangerous, although their webs may be an eyesore to some.Â
Furthermore, they do not carry diseases or feed on crops or other plants.
To get rid of them, it is best to keep outdoor lights off during warm summer evenings and trim back any branches or foliage near windows or doors.
Doing this can help reduce the likelihood of Ailanthus Webworm Moth activity near your home.
21. Bagworm Moth
The Bagworm Moth (Various spp.) is a common moth species in Kansas. In the summer months, it is often seen on shrubs, trees, and other plants.
They have a wide range of coloration, from brown to green or black, and are usually marked with stripes or spots.
The larvae of these moths in Kansas form web-like cocoons on the foliage and can be a serious pest of trees and shrubs.
The adult moths feed on nectar from flowers and are attracted to lights at night.
Bagworm Moths can cause extensive damage, including defoliation, silk webs, and frass, a mixture of larval feces and pieces of chewed foliage.Â
To prevent the damage caused by these moths, it is important to identify the species and inspect plants for their presence early in the season.
If present, use insecticides or contact a professional pest control company to manage the problem.
22. Black-Waved Flannel Moth
The black-waved flannel moth (Megalopyge crispata) is likewise one of the many types of moths in Kansas.
This species is known for its furry, mottled brown or yellow wings and distinct white bands near the wingtips.
The body is usually covered in short hairs and typically grows to about 1-2 cm long.Â
They are often seen flying around lights at night and are attracted to flowers.
They typically feed on nectar and other plant-based materials and do not cause any damage to plants or crops.
However, they can be annoying as they often fly into homes and land on people. Fortunately, they are not dangerous and can easily be removed with a vacuum cleaner or broom.
23. Buck Moth
The Buck Moth, also known as Hemileuca Maia, is one of the most striking types of moths in Kansas.
This species has a wingspan of up to 3 inches, with wings that vary in color from light gray to blackish-brown.
The wings also feature eyespots on the hindwings. This species can be found in Kansas during the summer months and is especially common in the central part of the state.
The Buck Moth caterpillar is also an impressive sight, with a length of up to 2.5 inches and a distinctive reddish-brown color.
It has several white stripes running along its body and two long horns protruding from its head.
These caterpillars feed on various plants and shrubs, including oak, elm, hickory, and poplar trees.
When threatened, they can secrete a sticky substance from their horns as a defense mechanism.
24. Common Spring Moth
The Common Spring Moth (Heliomata cycladata) is an attractive moth species in Kansas.
They are typically yellowish-brown or tan, with wings decorated with irregular dark and light markings.
These moths can be seen from late spring to early summer as they flutter around trees and shrubs.
They also prefer open fields and meadows, which can sometimes be seen in gardens.
They often emerge in large numbers when favorable conditions make them a common sight during the summer months.
The Common Spring Moth is not considered a pest. It eats nectar from plants such as dogbane, goldenrod, and clover.Â
Also, they are types of moths in Kansas that are quite harmless, so there’s no need to worry about their presence.
However, if you notice a large number of these moths on your property, it may be best to contact an entomologist to determine whether they are damaging your plants or vegetation.
25. Corn Earworm Moth
This list of the various types of moths in Kansas includes the Corn Earworm Moth (Helicoverpa zea), a small, yellow-green moth that can be found in Kansas.
It has brown-streaked wings and a pattern of lines on its body. The larvae feed on corn, and their activity can damage the crop.
The adults can be identified by their dark-colored hindwings and by a white spot near their tails.Â
Corn earworm moths are a common pest in Kansas. They are active at night and rest in sheltered areas during the day.
They have been known to cause significant damage to corn crops and other vegetables.
They can be managed with insecticides, although natural methods such as increasing the diversity of beneficial insects in your garden may also help reduce their population.
If you suspect an infestation, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage.
26. Dart Moth
The Dart Moth (Agnorisma bolii) is a small moth native to Kansas that is usually found from April to September.
Its wingspan is usually around 1 inch and has gray-brown coloration with a pattern of spots on its wings.
These moths prefer moist, shaded areas such as dense forests, woodlands, swamps, and stream banks.
They are attracted to lights and are commonly found in urban and suburban settings, particularly near outdoor lighting.
These moths feed mainly on the nectar of flowers and can be seen flying around in the evenings.
In terms of danger, these moths are not dangerous to humans or animals. They are generally considered harmless and pose no threat.
However, they may be a nuisance if they congregate near outdoor lighting or in other areas where they can become a pest.
If this is the case, various methods, such as bug zappers or bug sprays, are available to eliminate them.
27. Definite Tussock Moth
The Definite Tussock Moth (Orgyia definita) is a species of moth native to the state of Kansas.
It is a fairly large species, typically reaching lengths of around 1 inch or more. The moths are grayish-brown, with four distinct yellow spots on each of their wings.
They prefer dry and semi-arid regions and can be commonly found in prairies and grasslands throughout Kansas.
These moths are active daily and feed mainly on plants like ragweed and goldenrod.
While they are not known to cause significant damage to crops, they can become quite numerous in certain areas and may require control measures to prevent crop losses.Â
Adult moths lay their eggs in the foliage of their preferred host plant, usually goldenrod or ragweed.
When the larvae hatch, they will feed on the foliage for several weeks before pupating and emerging as adults.
28. Dimorphic Tosale Moth
The Dimorphic Tosale Moth (Tosale oviplagalis) is a large, colorful species of moth found in Kansas and parts of the Midwest.
The adults range from 1 to 2.5 inches in length and have a wingspan of up to 4.5 inches.
The body of this moth is usually green or yellow, with a patterned stripe on its abdomen. It has two distinct forms: one with a redhead and one with a black head.
The Dimorphic Tosale Moth is found in open grasslands and fields near streams and rivers.
They are active during the day but may also be seen in the evenings. They feed on nectar from various flowers, including clovers and vetches.
They are also one of the numerous types of moths in Kansas. They lay their eggs on the leaves of their host plants, which hatch into larvae after about five days.
These larvae feed on the host plant until they are ready to pupate.
29. Eyed Paectes Moth
The Eyed Paectes Moth (Paectes oculatrix) is a species of moth native to Kansas, belonging to the family Euteliidae.
It has a wingspan of about 1 inch and a body length of up to 1/3 inch. It can be identified by its gray-brown mottled forewings and large, prominent black eyespots on each forewing.
It is usually found in meadows, fields, gardens, and wooded areas.
The larvae of this moth feed on the leaves and flowers of various herbaceous plants, including corn and other grasses, but do not cause significant damage to their hosts.
This moth, which is on this list of the different types of moths in Kansas, is considered beneficial because it helps with pollination.
In the evening hours, the adults of this species can be seen hovering around lights.
30. Forest Tent Caterpillar Moth
The Forest Tent Caterpillar Moth (Malacosoma disstria) is a medium-sized moth native to Kansas.
It is commonly seen between April and June but has been known to appear as early as late March.
These moths are easily recognized by their light brown and yellow stripes running down the length of their wings.
They are types of moths in Kansas that have long antennae and a wingspan of approximately 2 inches.
These moths feed on leaves, twigs, and other vegetation, making them a major pest in agricultural areas.
They are known to damage trees, including defoliating young trees. As their numbers increase, they can become quite a nuisance in backyards and gardens.
Luckily, insecticides can be used to control these moths, though they should be used sparingly and carefully to minimize any environmental damage.
31. Roadside Sallow Moth
The Roadside Sallow Moth (Metaxaglaea viatica) is found throughout most of the United States.
In Kansas, it can be seen during the summer months from late May to early August.
Its adult moths have a wingspan of up to 1 and 7/8 inches, while its larvae can reach up to 2 and 1/8 inches in length.
The types of moths in Kansas are grayish-brown in color with yellow and gray stripes.
These moths are near wetlands, moist grasslands, roadsides, and fields.
They feed on grasses, sedges, and herbs but on caterpillars and other insect larvae.
The Roadside Sallow Moth is an important pollinator in Kansas and helps keep the environment healthy by helping plants reproduce.
32. Zebra Conchylodes Moth
The Zebra Conchylodes Moth (Conchylodes ovulalis) is a native species of Kansas and can be found in the central and eastern parts of the state.
These moths are easily recognizable due to their distinctive black-and-white striped pattern.
They typically measure 12-18mm in length and have a wingspan of up to 28mm.Â
They have long and narrow wings, which are white with black stripes running along their length.
The caterpillars of this species are also quite distinctive with their yellowish-green coloration and several black spots.
They feed on various plants, including corn, clover, alfalfa, and grasses.Â
The Zebra Conchylodes Moth is considered a beneficial species because it helps to control pests that could otherwise damage crops and gardens.
This species can be found during the warmer months, usually between May and September. Thus, it is not left out of our list of the types of moths in Kansas!
33. Yucca Moth
The Yucca Moth (Tegeticula, Greya, and Prodoxus spp.) is found in many parts of Kansas, including western and south-central Kansas.
They belong to the family of moths known as Prodoxidae, which feed on yucca plants.
They have a white and gray body with black or dark brown stripes and yellow wing markings.Â
They are types of moths in Kansas that can reach up to an inch in length.
Yucca moths are active at night, visiting yucca flowers to pollinate them and collect nectar.
The larvae of these moths feed on the yucca fruit, which gives them their name.
The presence of yucca moths is important for the health of the yucca plant, as the flowers must be pollinated by these moths to produce fruit.
Without them, the population of yucca plants could decrease drastically, leading to an ecological imbalance.
Fortunately, these moths can be found throughout much of Kansas, providing a vital service to the plant community and keeping the environment healthy.
34. Ruddy Dagger Moth
The Ruddy Dagger Moth (Acronicta rubricoma) is an impressive moth found in the Midwest, particularly in Kansas.
It has a wingspan of around 1.8 inches and a vibrant reddish-brown coloration. Its markings, which include a curved line at the bottom of each wing and white spots, make it quite distinct.
This species prefers to feed on the nectar of various flowers and is especially fond of milkweed and thistle.
In Kansas, it is typically seen in late summer and fall. This species is also sometimes referred to as the Red-Tipped Dagger Moth.
The Ruddy Dagger Moth is a great addition to any garden. Its bright colors attract both pollinators and humans.
It is a fascinating insect to watch as its wings beat quickly while it searches for food.
If you want to add color and life to your outdoor space, consider adding the Ruddy Dagger Moth to your landscape.
35. Yellow-Washed Metarranthis Moth
This yellow-washed Metarranthis moth, known as Metarranthis obfirmaria, is found in the eastern and central United States.
It is active from May through June and is one of Kansas’s more common types of moths.Â
This species has a wingspan of about 1.5 inches, and its wings are yellowish with dark spots and stripes.
The wings have a slightly scalloped margin, giving them an unusual appearance.
It is a strong flier, often seen hovering over flowers, and will feed on the nectar of various flowering plants.
36. Yellow-Vested Moth
This small yellow-colored moth (Rectiostoma xanthobasis) is common in Kansas, with sightings recorded in all of the state.
Its body is mostly yellow, but the area surrounding its wings has a pink hue.
The moth’s antennae are long and slender, and its forewings have a white band near the base.
This moth tends to be active at night and is usually found in flowers and plants. It feeds on nectar and pollen and lays its eggs on foliage.
This moth also belongs to the family Geometridae and is a member of the subfamily Ennominae.
It is considered to be a rare species, as only a few known populations found in Kansas.Â
Despite this, yellow-vested moths can still be found in areas of natural vegetation in the state.
They typically remain close to their food sources, so it’s best to look for them near flowering plants.
37. Yellow-Striped Armyworm Moth
The Yellow-striped Armyworm Moth (Spodoptera ornithogalli) is a species of moth found in the state of Kansas.
This moth is grayish-brown, with a yellow stripe running down each side. The wings are also marked with a yellow streak and have white spots.
This species’ wingspan can reach up to 3 inches, making it one of the larger moths found in Kansas.
The Yellow-striped Armyworm Mooth is common in gardens and fields during summer.
Its larvae feed on various crops, such as corn, beans, and clover so that they can be an issue for farmers.
You can use insecticides or traps at night to control their population.
They are types of moths in Kansas that are attracted to bright lights. They will get caught in traps and die.
38. Venerable Dart Moth
The Venerable Dart Moth (Agrotis venerabilis) is a medium-sized moth found throughout Kansas.
It has distinctive yellow and brown stripes along the wings, with a yellow to reddish-brown background.
Its hind wings are usually lighter than the forewings. The Venerable Dart Moth is active from April through October.
Adults prefer to feed on nectar from flowers during the day, while larvae feed on grasses and low-growing shrubs at night.
The Venerable Dart Moth, one of the many moths in Kansas, can be seen in many parts of Kansas, though it prefers grassy, sunny areas near ditches or fields.
These moths are relatively common in rural areas but can also be found in cities and suburbs.Â
They typically lay eggs on the tops of grass blades, and when hatched, larvae will feed on the grass and other low-growing plants until they reach adulthood.
This species is an important pollinator for many wildflowers, helping to ensure their growth and spread.
39. Woolly Gray Moth
The Woolly Gray Moth (Lycia ypsilon) is a medium-sized moth native to North America, including Kansas.
This moth has gray and brown wings and a small yellow spot on the forewing.
This species is found in most of the eastern and central United States and typically flies from April through September.
They feed on various plants, including oak, elm, and birch trees.
The caterpillars of these moths in Kansas are white with dark tufts of hair on their sides.
During the day, they often feed on flowers and other plant material.
The Woolly Gray Moth is an important pollinator for native plants and flowers, providing essential benefits to local ecosystems.
40. White-Striped Black Moth
The White-striped Black Moth (Trichodezia albovittata) is a common species found in grasslands and fields in Kansas.
This species has white and black stripes along its wings, making it easily recognizable. The larvae feed on various plants, including grasses and other small vegetation.
The adult moths are found mainly during summer, with peak activity occurring between June and August.
This species is a day-flying moth and can be seen flying around on warm, sunny days.
It is known to visit flowers for nectar and is also attracted to light sources. This species is an important pollinator for wildflowers and other native plants in Kansas.
The White-striped Black Moth plays an important role in maintaining healthy ecosystems in the state, providing food for other insects, birds, and even bats.
41. Yellow-Spotted Webworm Moth
This small but striking moth (Anageshna primordialis) is found in the grasslands of Kansas.
Its wings are mostly black, with yellow spots and a yellow fringe along the edge.
It feeds on plants such as bluegrass and clovers and can be seen fluttering around in the late summer.
The female moths lay their eggs in long strands on the host plant.
The larvae feed on the foliage when they hatch, creating an aesthetically displeasing silk web.
This moth species is most active at night and is drawn to lights. Although the Yellow-spotted Webworm Moth is not considered a pest species, its larvae can still damage crops and gardens, so it’s best to watch for them.Â
They can be distinguished from other types of moths in the area by their size, coloration, and behavior.
If you happen to spot one of these types of moths in Kansas, be sure to note the details and appreciate its beauty!
42. Unicorn Caterpillar Moth
The Unicorn Caterpillar Moth (Schizura unicornis) is one of the most fascinating and eye-catching types of moths in Kansas.
This species is native to North America and is found in southern Canada and down through Mexico.
It has a distinct brownish-gray body with yellow, white, and black markings on its wings.
Its wingspan can reach up to 1.25 inches, and the moths live for about two months.
Unicorn Caterpillar Moths tend to be found in fields, meadows, and other open areas with grasses, trees, and shrubs.
They are especially drawn to thistles and milkweeds, where they lay their eggs and feed on the plant’s nectar.
The caterpillars of this species also have unique looks—they have four long ‘horns’ on the front of their heads and a yellow band running down their back.
43. Tulip-Tree Silkmoth
The Tulip-tree Silkmoth (Callosamia angulifera) is a moth species found in Kansas.
It has an impressive wingspan of 2 to 3 inches, and its body is pale brown with pinkish or yellowish stripes along the back.
The underside of its wings is yellowish or brown with black spots. This moth is typically seen flying in the evening and prefers hardwood forests and stream banks.
This species’ larvae feed on the leaves of several trees, including tulip trees, ash, maple, hickory, and oak.
It is considered uncommon in Kansas but can be found in the state’s southeastern part. Adult moths are mostly active at night and can be attracted to lights.Â
They can also be seen flying during the day on warm and sunny days. The best way to spot one of these moths is to look for them near its host plants.
Although uncommon, their presence may indicate a healthy ecosystem where many other species depend on them for food and shelter.
44. The Penitent Moth
The Penitent Moth (Catocala piatrix) is a beautiful moth native to Kansas.
This species has grayish-brown wings and bright orange markings on its wings. It also has a row of black spots near the edges of its wings.
This moth is most active during the summer and is commonly found in wooded areas.
The caterpillar of this species is also quite distinctive, with its yellow and black stripes, white spots, and black spines.
The Penitent Moth is a wonderful sight in Kansas and provides a unique opportunity for those interested in observing moths in the wild. They can be seen fluttering around from midsummer until early fall.
In addition, caterpillars can also be found in many areas, especially in wooded locations. To glimpse this species, visit a park or nature preserve near you.
45. The Hebrew Moth
This striking moth (Polygrammate hebraeicum), known as the Small Snout Moth, is native to the United States and Canada.
It is found throughout Kansas, where it is especially common in the southern part of the state.
The moth is identifiable by its black wings with an orange-red band on each one. The body is grayish-brown, and the head has a distinct snout-like shape.
The Hebrew Moth is most active at night when its moths can be seen fluttering around lights or trees.
This moth is mainly a nocturnal species, but it can be seen resting on plants or rocks during the day.
During this time, they feed on nectar and other flower parts, helping to pollinate the surrounding area.
Meanwhile, they are considered beneficial insects since they help control pest populations by eating larvae and other insect eggs.
The Hebrew Moth is an important part of the ecosystem in Kansas, making it an important part of the local wildlife.
46. White Furcula Moth
The White Furcula Moth (Furcula borealis) is a type of moth found in Kansas.
These moths are about one and a half inches long and have a distinctive white and light brown pattern on their wings.
They are usually found near meadows and grasslands, feeding on nectar and flower pollen.Â
These moths are unique in that they are active during the day, and their populations tend to increase in the spring and summer.
They do not appear to be affected by predators or parasites, so they are a common sight in Kansas.
White Furcula Moths are one of the various types of moths in Kansas. They have one generation per year and typically hatch in late April or early May.Â
The eggs are laid on the underside of grasses and weeds, and larvae feed on these plants until they are mature enough to pupate.
Adults emerge in June or July and live for a few weeks before dying off in the fall.
It is important to note that the White Furcula Moth can be confused with the closely related Yucca Moth but can be identified by its distinct wing pattern.
47. Strawberry Crown Moth
The Strawberry Crown Moth (Synanthedon bibionipennis) is a species of moth that can be found in Kansas.
This small, grayish-brown moth has a white band near the front of its wings that has a distinctive “strawberry crown” pattern.
It prefers to feed on grasses, clovers, and sedges, but it can also be found in gardens and cultivated fields.Â
The adult moths of these particular moths in Kansas typically emerge in the late spring and summer months.
They lay their eggs in leaf litter, and the larvae feed on the leaves of the host plant. The larvae are yellowish-green with a dark stripe down the back.
They form a pupa in the fall before emerging as adult moths the following spring.
