Mobile Groundling
Common NameMobile Groundling
Scientific NameZale phaeocapna
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, dark brown, white
HabitatForests, woodlands, areas with deciduous trees
Geographic RangeMexico, Central America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, pine
Flight PeriodSpring to Fall
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, adult. Larvae are typically loopers or semi-loopers, feeding on host plant foliage.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled brown cryptic forewings with a prominent white discal spot, and the triangular resting posture on bark or leaf litter.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, triangular forewings displaying a mottled brown and tan cryptic pattern, featuring a distinct white spot on each forewing.
