Blue-spotted Forester Moth
Common NameBlue-spotted Forester Moth
Scientific NameEudryas unio
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyAgaristinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsblack, white, orange, blue
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsevening primrose, buttonbush, grape, Virginia creeper
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are brightly colored, typically white with black bands and orange spots, feeding on host plant leaves. They pupate in a cocoon mixed with soil or debris.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of black wings with white spots, the iridescent blue scales (especially on the forewings), and the bright orange patch on the hindwing. It is a day-flying moth.
Description
A medium-sized, day-flying moth with velvety black wings adorned with prominent white or cream spots and an iridescent blue sheen. The hindwings feature a distinctive orange patch.
