Abbreviated Button Slug Moth
Common NameAbbreviated Button Slug Moth
Scientific NameTortricidia flexuosa
FamilyLimacodidae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorstan, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, cherry, hickory, beech, chestnut, willow, elm
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like caterpillars, lacking prolegs and moving with a gliding motion. They pupate in a hard, button-shaped cocoon, often attached to twigs or leaves.
Identification TipsLook for the stout, fuzzy body and the distinctive irregular dark brown pattern on the forewings, which often includes a prominent 'slug' or 'button' mark. Its small size is also a key feature.
Description
A small, stout-bodied moth with a fuzzy, light tan to orange-brown body and forewings marked with irregular, dark brown patterns, often resembling a 'slug' or 'button' shape.
