Chalky Bird Dropping Moth
Common NameChalky Bird Dropping Moth
Scientific NameTarache areli
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcontiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, brown, orange, black, silver
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America, from southern Canada to the Gulf Coast states
Host PlantsSida, Malva
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are caterpillars that feed on plants in the mallow family (Malvaceae).
Identification TipsRecognizable by its unique bird-dropping camouflage, characterized by the stark white head and anterior thorax contrasting with the complex, blotchy pattern of dark brown, orange, and metallic silver on the forewings.
Description
A small moth with a distinctive bird-dropping mimicry pattern, featuring a chalky white head and thorax, and forewings mottled with irregular patches of white, dark brown, orange-brown, and metallic silvery-blue scales.
