Decorated Owlet
Common NameDecorated Owlet
Scientific NameIsogona tenuis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyScolecocampinae
Wingspan (mm)22.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, orange, grey
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantshackberry (Celtis spp.), oak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are typically cryptic and feed on the leaves of host trees before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its broad, scalloped wings and the intricate, mottled brown and reddish-orange pattern, often with faint wavy transverse lines and a reniform spot.
Description
This small moth has broad, somewhat triangular wings with a scalloped outer margin, displaying a complex, mottled pattern of browns, tans, and reddish-orange hues that provide excellent camouflage.
