Maple Prominent
Common NameMaple Prominent
Scientific NameFentonia marthesia
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyNotodontinae
Wingspan (mm)45
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsmaple, oak, birch, beech
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green with yellow stripes and a prominent 'horn' on the last abdominal segment. They feed on host tree leaves, pupate in the soil or leaf litter, and overwinter as pupae.
Identification TipsLook for the prominent white patch on the forewing costa near the apex, combined with the mottled brown and black patterns that mimic tree bark. The resting posture often involves holding wings tent-like over the body.
Description
A medium-sized moth with cryptically patterned forewings, featuring shades of brown, black, and a distinctive white patch near the apex, giving it a bark-like appearance.
