Dented Datana
Common NameDented Datana
Scientific NameDatana diffidens
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorstan, light brown, orange-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, hickory, birch
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in clusters on host plant leaves. Larvae are gregarious, feeding in groups, and are typically black with yellow stripes. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the light tan forewings with faint wavy lines and the distinctive orange-brown head and thorax. Larvae are black with yellow stripes and raise their heads and tails when disturbed.
Description
A medium-sized moth with light tan to yellowish-brown forewings that are speckled and feature several faint, wavy transverse lines, contrasting with a prominent orange-brown, hairy head and thorax.
