Beautiful Aetole Moth
Common NameBeautiful Aetole Moth
Scientific NameAetole bella
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, black, silver
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantssumac, poison ivy
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically leaf miners or stem borers on host plants such as sumac and poison ivy.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size and the unique, striking pattern of bright orange, black spots, and silvery-white markings on the forewings.
Description
A small moth characterized by its vibrant orange forewings intricately patterned with distinct black spots and silvery-white streaks, contrasting with darker hindwings.
