Green Leuconycta Moth
Common NameGreen Leuconycta Moth
Scientific NameLeuconycta diphteroides
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsgreen, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsbirch, maple, oak, willow, elm
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with white stripes and feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often overwintering as pupae before emerging as adults.
Identification TipsKey features include the vibrant green and black cryptic pattern on the forewings, which mimics lichen. Look for the distinct wavy black lines and patches against the pale green background.
Description
This moth displays a striking mottled pattern of pale green, black, and white across its forewings, providing excellent camouflage against lichen-covered bark. The hindwings are typically plain grey.
