Elder Moth
Common NameElder Moth
Scientific NameAcronicta morula
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorspale green, white, light brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantselder (Sambucus), maple (Acer), oak (Quercus), willow (Salix), ash (Fraxinus)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are hairy caterpillars, typically green or brown, feeding on various deciduous trees and shrubs. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating host plant material.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pale green forewings with subtle wavy lines and the very fuzzy, pale yellowish-white head and thorax. The overall delicate appearance and specific wing venation patterns can help differentiate it from similar species.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale, often yellowish-green forewings marked with faint, wavy transverse lines, and a conspicuously fuzzy, pale head and thorax.
