Contracted Datana Moth
Common NameContracted Datana Moth
Scientific NameDatana contracta
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyDatanae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, light brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, birch, hickory, witch-hazel, chestnut, apple, blueberry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, feeding in groups on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They are typically black with yellow stripes and long white hairs, pupating in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive reddish-brown head and thorax, which stands out against the lighter, mottled brown forewings. The forewings feature several wavy, dark brown lines, and the moth typically rests with its wings held roof-like over its body.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by a prominent reddish-brown head and thorax, contrasting with light brown forewings that are marked with several wavy, darker brown transverse lines and speckling.
