Clemens' Bark Moth
Common NameClemens' Bark Moth
Scientific NameAcronicta clemensii
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, brown, grey, black
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, elm, cherry
Flight PeriodApril to September (typically two broods, May-June and July-August)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy caterpillars, often with tufts, feeding on the leaves of various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often incorporating bark or wood fragments.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive rough, bark-like texture created by the raised scale tufts on the forewings and thorax, combined with its mottled grey-brown and white coloration, which helps it blend seamlessly with tree bark.
Description
This small moth exhibits excellent camouflage, with forewings mottled in shades of white, grey, and brown, featuring prominent raised tufts of scales that mimic tree bark.
