Black-olive Caterpillar Moth
Common NameBlack-olive Caterpillar Moth
Scientific NameCondica sutor
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyCondicinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black, reddish-brown
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, and areas where its host plant, the Black-olive tree, is present.
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (especially Florida), and the Caribbean (e.g., Cuba, Puerto Rico).
Host PlantsBlack-olive tree (Bucida buceras)
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical parts of its range; multiple broods from spring to fall in more temperate areas.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe caterpillar stage feeds on the leaves of the Black-olive tree. Like all moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis, progressing through egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult stages.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the mottled gray-brown forewings with distinct dark and reddish-brown markings, particularly the reniform and orbicular spots. Its strong association with the Black-olive tree is a primary clue.
Description
This moth features forewings with a complex, mottled pattern of various shades of gray, brown, and black, accented with reddish-brown patches and wavy transverse lines, providing excellent camouflage. Its hindwings are typically paler.
