Frigid Owlet
Common NameFrigid Owlet
Scientific NameSympistis frigida
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyOncocnemidinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatAlpine tundra, subalpine rocky slopes, high elevations
Geographic RangeArctic and subarctic North America, including Alaska, Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut, and high elevations in western Canada and the US Rocky Mountains.
Host PlantsSaxifraga, Dryas
Flight PeriodJuly to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on low-growing alpine plants. The species is univoltine, with adults flying in late summer to early autumn. Overwintering stage is typically the pupa.
Identification TipsLook for the intricate grey, brown, and white mottling on the forewings, featuring distinct white-outlined kidney-shaped (reniform) and circular (orbicular) spots. A jagged white subterminal line and small reddish-brown markings are also characteristic. Its occurrence in alpine/arctic habitats during late summer is a key indicator.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with intricately mottled grey, brown, and white forewings, providing excellent camouflage. It has distinct white-outlined reniform and orbicular spots, a jagged white subterminal line, and small reddish-brown markings.
