Leopard Lichen Moth
Common NameLeopard Lichen Moth
Scientific NameClemensia leopardina
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorscream, black, orange
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, areas with abundant lichens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantslichens (e.g., Parmelia, Usnea)
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are lichen feeders, consuming lichens found on trees and rocks. They pupate in a cocoon often incorporating larval hairs.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pale, leopard-spotted forewings and the prominent, contrasting orange longitudinal streaks on each wing.
Description
A small moth with cream-colored forewings heavily marked with irregular black spots, creating a leopard-like pattern, and distinctive orange streaks running longitudinally on each forewing.
