Gray Furcula Moth
Common NameGray Furcula Moth
Scientific NameFurcula cinerea
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgray, black, orange
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantswillow, poplar, aspen, birch, alder
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with a prominent dorsal hump and a forked tail (furcula), feeding on the leaves of host trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often incorporating bark or wood fragments, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled gray forewings with black spots and the prominent black and orange 'saddle' on the thorax. The feathery antennae (especially in males) are also a good indicator.
Description
This medium-sized moth has cryptically patterned gray forewings with scattered black spots and a distinctive black and orange saddle-like marking on its fuzzy gray thorax. Its antennae are feathery, particularly in males.
