Dark-banded Owlet
Common NameDark-banded Owlet
Scientific NamePhalaenostola metonalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyBoletobiinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with rich leaf litter
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsdead leaves, decaying plant matter, fungi
Flight PeriodJune to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are detritivores, feeding on dead leaves and decaying plant matter on the forest floor. They undergo complete metamorphosis, pupating in leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark, somewhat wavy median band across the forewing, bordered by lighter, scalloped lines. The overall cryptic brown coloration helps it blend in with its environment.
Description
This small moth has mottled brown forewings featuring a prominent dark median band and lighter, wavy subterminal and postmedian lines, providing excellent camouflage against bark or leaf litter.
