Desert Owlet
Common NameDesert Owlet
Scientific NameHeliothis phloxiphaga
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorslight brown, tan, dark brown, grey
HabitatDeserts, arid shrublands, sandy areas
Geographic RangeWestern North America (from southern Canada to Mexico)
Host PlantsPhlox, Oenothera, Mentzelia, Sphaeralcea, Lupinus, Penstemon
Flight PeriodMarch to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically polyphagous, feeding on flowers and seeds of various desert plants. They pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall pale, mottled brown coloration, the specific pattern of dark lines and spots on the forewings, and its occurrence in arid Western North American habitats.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptic, mottled forewings displaying shades of light brown, tan, and dark brown markings, including distinct reniform and orbicular spots. The hindwings are a plainer, lighter brown.
