Black-and-yellow Lichen Moth
Common NameBlack-and-yellow Lichen Moth
Scientific NameLycomorpha pholus
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, rocky areas, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantslichens
Flight PeriodJune to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed exclusively on lichens, typically found on rocks and tree bark. Pupation occurs in a cocoon often camouflaged with lichen fragments.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinct orange and black wing pattern, with the basal half of the forewings orange and the outer half black. It is a day-flying moth often seen nectaring on flowers.
Description
A small, day-flying moth characterized by its striking orange basal wings and black distal wings, with a black head and thorax.
