California Oak Moth
Common NameCalifornia Oak Moth
Scientific NamePhryganidia californica
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyPhryganidiinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgrey, white, pale brown
HabitatOak woodlands, forests, chaparral
Geographic RangeCalifornia (USA), Baja California (Mexico)
Host PlantsQuercus agrifolia, Quercus lobata, Quercus douglasii, Quercus kelloggii
Flight PeriodApril to May, August to October (two generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are striped black and yellow caterpillars that feed gregariously on oak leaves, sometimes causing significant defoliation. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon attached to leaves or bark.
Identification TipsLook for pale greyish-white wings with strong dark veins, especially on the forewings. Males have conspicuously feathery antennae. Always found in association with oak trees, their primary host plant.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale greyish-white wings featuring prominent dark venation, and distinctive feathery antennae, often camouflaged against oak leaves or bark.
