Bird Dropping Lichen Moth
Common NameBird Dropping Lichen Moth
Scientific NameLithacodes fasciola
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyNolinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, cream
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry, apple, blueberry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like and flattened, often green or brown, feeding on the underside of host plant leaves. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size and the distinctive, irregular pattern of dark brown and white bands on the forewings, which provides excellent camouflage against bark or lichen.
Description
A small moth with a highly cryptic pattern of mottled dark brown and white bands across its forewings, resembling bird droppings or lichen for camouflage.
