Moon-lined Moth
Common NameMoon-lined Moth
Scientific NamePhigalia titea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)38
Primary Colorsgray, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, elm, cherry, apple
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are inchworms that feed on various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in the soil, and adults emerge in late winter to early spring. Females are flightless.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive early spring flight period. Key features include the grayish-brown mottled wings with wavy dark lines, especially the prominent postmedial line, and the feathery antennae of the males.
Description
A medium-sized, grayish-brown moth with mottled wings and prominent dark, wavy transverse lines, including a distinct postmedial line. Males have broad, feathery antennae.
