Carpenterworm Moth
Common NameCarpenterworm Moth
Scientific NamePrionoxystus robiniae
FamilyCossidae
SubfamilyCossinae
Wingspan (mm)75
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatForests, woodlands, urban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeNorth America (eastern and central United States, parts of Canada)
Host Plantsoak, willow, poplar, elm, ash, maple, black locust
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are wood-borers, spending 2-4 years tunneling within the trunks and branches of various hardwood trees before pupating and emerging as adults.
Identification TipsLook for its large size, robust body, and distinctive cryptic forewing pattern resembling lichen or bark. Males often have yellow hindwings, though these are not visible when the moth is at rest.
Description
A large, robust moth with a mottled grey, white, and black pattern on its forewings, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
