Beloved Emarginea Moth
Common NameBeloved Emarginea Moth
Scientific NameEmarginea percara
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorspale green, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, and gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, hickory, willow
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are green loopers or semi-loopers that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, and adults emerge to fly during the warmer months.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive mottled pale green, black, and white coloration, particularly the irregular black patches on the forewings, and its relatively small size. The overall pattern provides excellent camouflage against bark or lichen.
Description
A small moth characterized by its striking cryptic pattern of pale green, black, and white patches, giving it a lichen-like appearance. Its forewings are somewhat triangular when at rest.
