American Idia Moth
Common NameAmerican Idia Moth
Scientific NameIdia americalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHerminiinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, tan, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, suburban areas, often near decaying organic matter
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsdead leaves, fungi, decaying organic matter
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on dead leaves, fungi, and other decaying organic matter. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and there are multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled grey-brown forewings with wavy lines, a pale subterminal band, and the distinctive long, forward-projecting labial palps that give it a 'snout' appearance.
Description
This small to medium-sized moth has mottled grey-brown forewings with darker wavy lines and a pale subterminal band, and prominent, forward-projecting labial palps.
