Early Button Slug Moth
Common NameEarly Button Slug Moth
Scientific NameAdoneta pygmaea
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, brown, reddish-brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, cherry, willow
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like, flattened, and lack prolegs, moving with a gliding motion. They are often brightly colored and may have stinging hairs. Pupation occurs in a hard, spherical cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, tan/brown streaked forewings, and the distinctive, raised 'button' or tuft on the thorax, which gives it a humped profile when at rest.
Description
A small, stout-bodied moth with tan to reddish-brown forewings marked with darker brown streaks. It is characterized by a prominent, raised button-like tuft of scales on its thorax, giving it a humped appearance.
