Diel flight periodicity of Chilo partellus

The diel flight periodicity of the nocturnal moth Chilo partellus (Swinhoe) (Lepidoptera; Pyralidae) was measured in the laboratory using an actograph and in the field with suction traps. Females showed almost no flight activity on the night of eclosion. Flight activity of mated females peaked before midnight, the period of peak oviposition activity. Male peak activity occurred after midnight coinciding with female eclosion. Presence or absence of females did not affect when or how long males were active. Data on flight activity and reproductive behaviour are discussed in relation to the use of pheromones to protect maize.