Hollow-spotted Plagodis Moth
Common NameHollow-spotted Plagodis Moth
Scientific NamePlagodis phlogosaria
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorstan, brown, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsmaple, birch, oak, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on various deciduous trees and shrubs. The species typically has two broods per year and overwinters as a pupa in the soil.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the distinctive pattern of two wavy white bands on a brown background, the pale 'hollow' discal spot on the forewing, and the slightly scalloped outer margins of the wings.
Description
This moth has broad, somewhat triangular wings, predominantly light brown to tan with two prominent wavy white bands crossing the forewings. A small, pale discal spot, often appearing 'hollow', is visible on each forewing.
