Linden Prominent
Common NameLinden Prominent
Scientific NameNerice bidentata
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)42.5
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, white, black, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Manitoba and Texas
Host PlantsTilia americana, Betula
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves. Larvae are green with a serrated dorsal ridge, resembling a leaf edge, and feed on linden or birch. They pupate in a cocoon in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsKey features include the unique jagged outline of the forewings created by the prominent 'teeth' on the hind margin, combined with the cryptic grey and white bark-like patterning.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled grey, white, and black forewings, characterized by a distinctive 'double-toothed' prominence on the hind margin of each forewing, giving it a jagged appearance.
