Lost Owlet
Common NameLost Owlet
Scientific NamePhalaenostoma loxostigma
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHerminiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsgrey, brown
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with deciduous trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southeastern US, north to New York and west to Texas)
Host Plantsdead leaves, detritus, oak, hickory
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on dead leaves and decaying plant matter on the forest floor. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent, upturned labial palps, the dark, wavy median line, and the two small black discal spots on the forewings. The overall cryptic gray-brown coloration helps it blend with bark or dead leaves.
Description
A small, mottled grayish-brown moth with prominent, upturned labial palps. Its forewings feature a distinct dark, wavy median line and two small black discal spots.
