Oblique Zale Moth
Common NameOblique Zale Moth
Scientific NameZale obliqua
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)42
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, dark brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, and areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, and west to Manitoba and Texas
Host Plantsoak (Quercus species)
Flight PeriodApril to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae feed on oak leaves and pupate in the soil or leaf litter, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its mottled grey-brown cryptic pattern, broad and angular forewings, and characteristic oblique dark lines and patches, especially on the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with broad, somewhat angular forewings, displaying a mottled grey-brown coloration with darker oblique lines and patches, providing excellent camouflage.
