Ashy Meganola Moth
Common NameAshy Meganola Moth
Scientific NameMeganola phylla
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyNolinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, beige, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens and algae growing on tree bark. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and the moths are nocturnal.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size (wingspan 14-18mm), the distinctive mottled grey-brown cryptic pattern with irregular darker markings, and a prominent dark spot near the center of the forewing.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey, brown, and beige forewings, often featuring irregular darker bands and a distinct central dark spot.
