Four-spotted Moth
Common NameFour-spotted Moth
Scientific NameTyta luctuosa
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, black
HabitatDry grasslands, meadows, open fields, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, parts of Asia, introduced to North America (Pacific Northwest)
Host PlantsConvolvulus arvensis, Convolvulus sepium
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on bindweed species, pupating in a cocoon in the soil. It typically has two to three generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark forewings with two clear white spots. The moth is often day-flying, especially in sunny conditions, despite being primarily nocturnal.
Description
A small moth with dark brown to black forewings, each featuring two prominent, contrasting white spots or patches. The hindwings are typically dark with a broad white band, though often concealed at rest.
