PNW Moths | Abagrotis rubricundis

Abagrotis rubricundis Buckett, 1968

93-3658

View Photographic Plate

OR : Josephine Co.
Chrome Ridge, 3779 ft
42.4, -123.7
August 25, 2003, L. G. Crabo.
Specimen courtesy of LGCC
Photograph copyright: Merrill A. Peterson

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Similar Species

Abagrotis mirabilis

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Elevation (ft)

Identification

Adults

Abagrotis rubricundis is a rare, medium-sized species (FW length 15 - 16 mm) that flies in southwestern Oregon during the late summer. It has red-brown to dull brick-red forewings marked by lighter cream-colored spots and with scattered gray scales, greatest in the terminal area. The double transverse lines are barely visible, except at the costa. A thin basal dash is visible in a few individuals. The tiny orbicular spot and ovoid reniform spot are filled with light yellowish scales and form the main elements of the forewing pattern. The claviform spot is absent. The hindwing is dark gray with barely evident discal spot and veins. The head and thorax match the forewings. The male antenna is filiform.

This species is unlikely to be confused with other species in our region due to the combination of light spots on a red background. It is similar in general pattern to Abagrotis mirabilis, but this species is dark gray, not red.

Habitat

This species occurs in oak woodlands and mixed hardwood-conifer forests at low to high elevations. It is usually very rare and sporadic. This species is considered to be sensitive to forest management due to its probable dependence on incense cedar as a larval foodplant.

Distribution

Pacific Northwest

Abagrotis rubricundis is restricted to dry forests in southwestern Oregon. It has been collected in the West Cascades, usually on dry ridges, and in the Siskiyou Mountains.

Global

The range of this species is limited to northern and eastern portions of the Sierra Nevada in California outside of our region.

Life History

Larvae

No information is presently available regarding larval foodplants of this species, but it is suspected to be a foodplant specialist feeding on incense cedar (Calocedrus decurrens) in the Cupressaceae based on the habitat and closely related species.

Adults

Adults fly in late summer and early fall, with records at the end of August and early September. They are nocturnal and come to lights.

Economic Importance

None.

Literature

Lafontaine (1998)

Miller & Hammond (2007)

Moth Photographers Group

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