Chalky Inga Moth
Common NameChalky Inga Moth
Scientific NameInga cretacea
FamilyOecophoridae
SubfamilyDepressariinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorscream, grey, brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of oak trees, often rolling or tying them. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, leading to the emergence of the adult moth.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, the overall pale and heavily speckled 'chalky' appearance of its wings, and its characteristic resting posture with wings held flat.
Description
A small moth with a creamy white to pale grey background heavily dusted with dark grey or brownish scales, giving it a distinctive chalky or mottled appearance. Its wings are held flat over its back when at rest.
