Hairy Compacta
Common NameHairy Compacta
Scientific NameCompacta hirtalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHypeninae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, black, blue
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsoak, maple
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae feed on the leaves of host trees, then pupate, likely overwintering as a pupa before emerging as an adult moth.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale ground color with complex dark brown and black patterns, including a prominent kidney-shaped spot and subtle bluish-grey patches on the forewings. The hairy labial palps, characteristic of snout moths (Hypeninae), are also a key feature.
Description
A small moth with pale yellowish-white to light brown forewings featuring intricate dark brown and black markings, including a distinct reniform spot and some bluish-grey scaling near the costa. The hindwings are paler, often whitish with faint lines.
