Conducta Moth
Common NameConducta Moth
Scientific NameCondica conducta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyCondicinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, extending into parts of the Midwest and Northeast, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Host PlantsEupatorium, Ambrosia, various herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodApril to November in temperate regions, year-round in tropical areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, adult. Larvae are typically green or brown and feed on herbaceous plants before pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey forewing pattern, the somewhat obscure reniform and orbicular spots, and a wavy subterminal line. Definitive identification often requires examination of genitalia due to similar species within the genus.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, often featuring indistinct reniform and orbicular spots and a wavy subterminal line. The hindwings are typically paler grey.
