Brown-spotted Zale Moth
Common NameBrown-spotted Zale Moth
Scientific NameZale helata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, oak forests
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers (inchworms) that feed on oak leaves. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter, emerging as adults in late spring to summer.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brownish-orange coloration, the intricate dark wavy lines across the forewings, and the prominent dark reniform spot. The overall pattern provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brownish-orange forewings, featuring complex dark brown wavy lines and a prominent, often kidney-shaped, dark spot near the center. The hindwings are typically a plainer brown with faint banding.
