Martin's Lichen Moth
Common NameMartin's Lichen Moth
Scientific NameCisthene martinii
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)17.5
Primary Colorsorange, grey, black
HabitatArid and semi-arid woodlands, rocky areas, and canyons where lichens are abundant
Geographic RangeSouthwestern United States (Arizona, New Mexico, Texas) and northern Mexico
Host Plantslichens
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens, particularly crustose lichens found on rocks and trees. Like most moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis through egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size and the unique pattern of orange and dark greyish-black bands on the forewings, especially the prominent central dark band and terminal patch. Often found in association with lichen-covered surfaces.
Description
A small moth with an orange head and thorax. Its forewings are orange at the base and outer margin, featuring a broad, irregular dark greyish-black band across the middle and a dark greyish-black terminal area.
