Hieroglyphic Moth
Common NameHieroglyphic Moth
Scientific NameDiphthera festiva
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyDiphtherinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsyellow, black, white, brown, green
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern North America, Central America, South America, Caribbean
Host PlantsQuercus, Carya, Juglans, Salix, Populus, Ulmus, Acer, Prunus, Malus, Citrus, Mangifera
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; multiple broods from spring to fall in temperate zones
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are hairy, often black with yellow or orange markings, feeding on a wide variety of broadleaf trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the unique 'hieroglyphic' pattern of yellow, black, and white on the forewings, especially the iridescent green spot and the row of black marginal spots. The plain brownish hindwings provide a strong contrast.
Description
A medium-sized moth characterized by its striking yellow forewings adorned with intricate black and white lines, a row of black spots along the outer margin, and a distinct iridescent green patch near the base. The hindwings are a uniform brownish-gray.
