How to Identify Moths in Kansas

Most moths are small with bland colors.

Moths in Kansas are sometimes mistaken for butterflies, and vice versa. However, knowing the primary differences helps you establish which is which. Identifying different moth species is not so easy, because in Kansas, each species is typically small and plain-colored. Unless you are schooled in entomology, identifying specific moth species can be difficult, but there are several resources and tools available to help you identify moths in Kansas.

Things You'll Need

• Field guidebook
• Camera

Instructions

1. Carry your illustrated field guidebook when you look for moths. Refer to the pictures to help you identify certain species.

2. Take a picture of the moth you can't identify. Use your picture to compare the moth with others on the Internet. There are several websites with moth illustrations and pictures.

3. Show your picture to an entomologist. Kansas State University has an entomology department that will help you identify moths.

4. Mail a picture to your local county extension office. The offices work with Kansas State's entomology and biology department to identify bugs.

5. Email a digital picture of the moth to Bobby Brown, director of the Insect Diagnostic Laboratory, at [e-mail]. If you don't have a digital image of the moth, send a printed picture to the Insect Diagnostic Laboratory at Kansas State University.

Tips & Warnings

• Put a moth in the freezer for 24 hours before mailing it. Mail it in a tissue-lined box so it does not get crushed.

• Do not mail live moths. It is illegal.

References

• Entomology Kansas State University: Insect Diagnostician
• Kansas State University: Don't Go Buggy Wondering What That Insect or Plant Might Be: Ask K-State

Resources

• Butterflies and Moths: Regional Species Checklist