Ceanothus Nola Moth
Common NameCeanothus Nola Moth
Scientific NameNola cilicoides
FamilyNolidae
SubfamilyNolinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, grey, brown, black
HabitatChaparral, woodlands, and areas with Ceanothus shrubs
Geographic RangeWestern North America (California, Oregon, Washington, British Columbia)
Host PlantsCeanothus spp.
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of Ceanothus shrubs. The species typically has two broods per year, with pupae or larvae overwintering.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the mottled grey and white forewings with a distinct dark brown basal band, and the characteristic tuft of scales on its head. It is strongly associated with Ceanothus host plants.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey and white forewings, featuring a prominent dark brown basal band and several wavy transverse lines. It has a distinctive tuft of scales on its head.
