Bicolored Woodgrain Moth
Common NameBicolored Woodgrain Moth
Scientific NameMorrisonia confusa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil, overwintering as pupae, and emerge as adults in early spring.
Identification TipsLook for the distinct bicolored forewing pattern with a darker central band contrasting with lighter basal and terminal areas. A pale, often kidney-shaped reniform spot is usually visible, sometimes with a dark streak extending from it.
Description
A medium-sized moth with forewings exhibiting a mottled, cryptic pattern of browns and grays, often with a darker median band and lighter basal and terminal areas, giving it a 'woodgrain' appearance.
