Louisiana Owlet
Common NameLouisiana Owlet
Scientific NameIdia aemula
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHerminiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, often near leaf litter.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas.
Host Plantsdetritus, dead leaves, fungi, lichens
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on dead leaves, fungi, and other organic matter on the forest floor. They undergo complete metamorphosis.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad, triangular wing shape when at rest, the pale, speckled brown coloration, and the long, upturned labial palps that project forward.
Description
A small, slender moth with broad, triangular wings that are held flat against the body at rest. The wings are pale tan to light brown, densely speckled with darker brown scales, creating a dusty or mottled appearance.
