Hulst's Flower Moth
Common NameHulst's Flower Moth
Scientific NameSchinia hulstia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHeliothinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, green
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, deserts, dry scrublands
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (e.g., California, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, New Mexico, Colorado)
Host PlantsHymenoclea salsola
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are specialized feeders, developing on the flowers and seeds of its host plant, Hymenoclea salsola. It undergoes complete metamorphosis from egg to larva, pupa, and adult.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the unique pattern of dark green, wavy bands on a pale background on the forewings. Its presence in arid southwestern North America, often near its host plant, Hymenoclea salsola, is also a strong indicator.
Description
A small moth characterized by its pale, often white or cream, forewings adorned with distinct, wavy, dark green bands and patches, creating a somewhat cryptic pattern.
