Missouri Pest Monitoring Network
European Corn Borer I.D.
![European Corn Borer wings spread](images/ecbMoth.jpg)
Identification of moth
(stage attracted to and captured in traps)
- Wingspan of 0.75 to 1 inch; female moth is larger than male moth
- Several dark zigzag markings across the wings
- Female moths (left): thicker body, yellowish buff to light tan wings
- Male moths: thinner body, darker tan-to-brown wings
![European Corn Borer wings closed, male and female](images/ecbMothID.jpg)
Identification of larvae (damaging stage)
![European Corn Borer larvae](images/ecbLarvae.jpg)
- Young larvae are initially dirty white; color may change to light tan or pinkish gray as larvae mature
- Skin is smooth and free of hairs with numerous round dark spots scattered over top and sides
- Head is dark brown to black
- Four prolegs (3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th and 10th abdominal segments)
- Maximum larvae length is one inch
![diagram showing European Corn Borer, placement of head, true leg, proleg, thorax, and ten segments of abdomen](images/ecbDiagram.jpg)