Arizona Bird-dropping Moth
Common NameArizona Bird-dropping Moth
Scientific NamePonometia indubitans
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcontiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, brown, tan
HabitatDeserts, arid scrublands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, California) and northern Mexico
Host PlantsAmbrosia species (ragweed), other Asteraceae
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae feed on herbaceous host plants.
Identification TipsIdentified by its distinctive white and brown/tan forewing pattern, which is an excellent camouflage resembling a bird dropping, with a prominent irregular brown patch and a darker central spot.
Description
A small moth with a white head and thorax, and forewings that are predominantly white with a large, irregular brown or tan patch on the outer half, often containing a darker central spot, effectively mimicking a bird dropping.
