Little White Lichen Moth
Common NameLittle White Lichen Moth
Scientific NameClemensia albata
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)21.5
Primary Colorswhite, grey, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, and areas with abundant lichens on trees and rocks
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like and feed primarily on lichens and algae growing on trees and rocks. Pupation occurs in a cocoon often covered with lichen fragments.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive white and grey mottled forewings that mimic lichen, and the presence of two prominent black spots on each forewing. The hindwings are uniformly white.
Description
A small moth with white to pale grey forewings heavily mottled with irregular dark grey and black markings, giving it a highly cryptic, lichen-like appearance. The hindwings are plain white.
