Dark Fan-foot
Common NameDark Fan-foot
Scientific NameZanclognatha tarsicrinalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHerminiinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America (eastern US and southeastern Canada)
Host Plantsdecaying leaves of various broadleaf trees and shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying leaves and plant matter on the forest floor. They typically overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring.
Identification TipsKey features include its reddish-brown coloration, the distinctive wavy transverse lines on the forewings, and its relatively large, forward-projecting labial palps (though not clearly visible in this dorsal view).
Description
This is a medium-sized, reddish-brown moth with broad forewings marked by two prominent, wavy, darker brown lines and a subterminal line. Its overall appearance is somewhat cryptic, blending with bark or dead leaves.
