Maple Zale Moth
Common NameMaple Zale Moth
Scientific NameZale minerea
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, maple groves
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia west to Manitoba and south to Florida and Texas
Host Plantsmaple (Acer spp.)
Flight PeriodApril to July (sometimes a second brood in late summer)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'looper' caterpillars that feed on maple leaves, typically pupating in the soil or leaf litter. There is usually one generation per year, sometimes two in warmer regions.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and gray forewings with a jagged, pale subterminal line and a dark, wavy median line. The overall pattern provides excellent camouflage against tree bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown, gray, and white forewings, featuring irregular dark lines and a prominent pale, wavy subterminal band. Its cryptic coloration allows it to blend seamlessly with tree bark.
