Half-wing Moth
Common NameHalf-wing Moth
Scientific NamePhigalia titea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, elm, cherry, ash, willow
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'inchworms' that feed on a variety of deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in the soil, with adults emerging in late winter to early spring.
Identification TipsMales are recognized by their distinctive mottled grey-white wings with wavy dark lines and their early spring flight. Females are easily identified by their flightless, vestigial wings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey and white wings, marked by several wavy, dark brown to black transverse lines. Males have fully developed wings, while females are flightless with greatly reduced wings.
