Confused Haploa Moth
Common NameConfused Haploa Moth
Scientific NameHaploa confusa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsbrown, white, yellow
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, open fields, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas.
Host Plantsdogbane, ragwort, eupatorium, various herbaceous plants and shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically hairy, dark-colored caterpillars that feed on a variety of herbaceous plants. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring, emerging as adults in late spring to summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pattern of dark brown forewings with large, irregular white blotches. The yellow/orange head and white hindwings are also key features. It can be confused with other *Haploa* species, requiring careful examination of the forewing pattern.
Description
This moth has striking dark brown forewings with irregular, large white patches, and mostly white hindwings. Its head and thorax are often yellow or orange, contrasting with its dark antennae.
