Four-spotted Bird-dropping Moth
Common NameFour-spotted Bird-dropping Moth
Scientific NameCerma cerintha
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcontiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, dark brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, shrubby areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas)
Host Plantsdogwood, maple, oak, birch
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green or brown and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsEasily identified by its distinctive bird-dropping mimicry, featuring large, irregular white and dark brown/black blotches on the forewings. The overall shape and coloration are key.
Description
A small moth with a striking cryptic pattern of white and dark brown/black patches on its wings, designed to mimic bird droppings when at rest. The head and thorax are predominantly white.
