Bent-winged Owlet
Common NameBent-winged Owlet
Scientific NameHypena palparia
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHypeninae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmaple, oak, birch, elm
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are semi-loopers that feed on the foliage of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, and multiple generations occur per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive slightly bent or angled outer margin of the forewings, the two prominent dark spots on each forewing, and the overall mottled brownish-grey coloration. The long, upturned labial palps are also characteristic.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled brownish-grey forewings, characterized by a slightly bent or angled outer margin. Each forewing features two prominent dark, triangular or wedge-shaped spots and a faint, wavy subterminal line.
