Brown Satyr Moth
Common NameBrown Satyr Moth
Scientific NamePhlogophora iris
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, grey
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban gardens, and areas with host trees and shrubs.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas.
Host Plantsmaple, birch, oak, cherry, willow, aster
Flight PeriodMay to June and August to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter, with the species overwintering as a pupa or egg.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive reddish-brown, fuzzy body and the mottled, streaky brown forewings. The overall cryptic coloration helps it blend in with tree bark or dead leaves.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a robust, fuzzy reddish-brown thorax and head, and mottled brown to greyish-brown forewings that feature darker streaks and wavy lines, providing excellent camouflage.
