Common Fungus Moth
Common NameCommon Fungus Moth
Scientific NameTriphosa haesitata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, tan
HabitatForests, woodlands, riparian areas, often near caves or sheltered structures for overwintering
Geographic RangeWestern North America, from Alaska south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains
Host PlantsRhamnus (buckthorn), Ceanothus (ceanothus)
Flight PeriodSpring to Fall (overwinters as adult)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis species overwinters as an adult, often congregating in cool, sheltered places like caves, cellars, or outbuildings. Larvae feed on the leaves of host plants.
Identification TipsLook for the characteristic mottled brown and grey pattern with darker transverse bands and the strongly scalloped hindwing margin. Its habit of overwintering in caves or similar structures is also a key identifier.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, mottled brown and grey wings, featuring darker bands and a distinctly scalloped hindwing margin.
