Olive-shaded Bird-dropping Moth
Common NameOlive-shaded Bird-dropping Moth
Scientific NamePonometia candefacta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcontiinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, olive, brown, grey
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas and Kansas)
Host PlantsRagweed (Ambrosia spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are semi-loopers that feed on ragweed plants. They pupate in the soil, and the species typically has multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its distinctive bird-dropping camouflage pattern, characterized by olive-brown and dark brown patches on a white ground. Its bright green eyes are also a helpful feature in close observation.
Description
This small moth has a white head and thorax, and forewings intricately mottled with irregular patches of olive-brown, dark brown, and grey on a white background, effectively mimicking a bird dropping. Its hindwings are typically plain greyish.
