Barnes' Lichen Moth
Common NameBarnes' Lichen Moth
Scientific NameCisthene barnesii
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark gray, yellow
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with abundant lichens on trees and rocks
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, extending north to parts of the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic states
Host Plantslichens
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens growing on tree bark and rocks. They pupate in a cocoon often incorporating larval hairs, and adults are typically nocturnal.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive yellow 'Y' or 'T' shaped pattern on the dark gray forewings, formed by a yellow costal stripe and a perpendicular yellow stripe across the wing.
Description
This small moth has dark gray forewings with striking yellow markings, including a prominent stripe along the costal margin and another stripe extending from the base to the outer margin, often forming a 'Y' or 'T' shape.
