Barrens Paectes Moth
Common NameBarrens Paectes Moth
Scientific NamePaectes abrostoloides
FamilyEuteliidae
SubfamilyEuteliinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black, cream
HabitatOak barrens, pine barrens, dry oak woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from southern Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak (Quercus species)
Flight PeriodMarch to October (varies by region, typically spring to fall)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; eggs are laid on host plants, larvae (caterpillars) feed on oak leaves, pupation occurs, and adults emerge.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled gray-brown forewings with dark wavy lines and the two prominent, pale, kidney-shaped spots. The feathery antennae are also a good indicator.
Description
This moth has mottled gray-brown forewings with intricate dark wavy lines and two prominent pale, kidney-shaped spots near the thorax. Its hindwings are generally darker and less patterned, and it possesses feathery antennae.
