Eastern Streaked Plusia
Common NameEastern Streaked Plusia
Scientific NamePlusia contexta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPlusiinae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsAster, Solidago (Goldenrod), various composites
Flight PeriodJune to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLike most moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. Larvae feed on herbaceous host plants before pupating.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive, often broken, white streak or 'plus' mark on the mottled grey-brown forewings, combined with the raised tufts on the thorax.
Description
This is a medium-sized moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, featuring a prominent, irregular white streak or 'plus' mark. Its thorax has noticeable raised tufts, contributing to its cryptic appearance.
