Black Bit Moth
Common NameBlack Bit Moth
Scientific NameEuclidia cuspidea
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, meadows, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America (from southern Canada to the southern United States)
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, vetch, other legumes
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers, feeding on various legumes. They pupate in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive black reniform spot on the forewing and the overall cryptic brown pattern. It is a diurnal moth, often seen flying rapidly during the day.
Description
This is a medium-sized moth with mottled brown forewings featuring a prominent black, kidney-shaped reniform spot and a distinct dark subterminal line. The hindwings are typically darker brown with lighter bands.
