Orange-patched Smoky Moth
Common NameOrange-patched Smoky Moth
Scientific NamePyromorpha dimidiata
FamilyZygaenidae
SubfamilyPyromorphinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsorange, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, oak savannas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsOak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are slug-like and feed on oak leaves, often skeletonizing them. They pupate in a cocoon, typically on the host plant or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive orange stripe on dark forewings and its diurnal flight. Males have feathery antennae, while females have more slender antennae.
Description
This is a small, day-flying moth characterized by its dark, smoky forewings prominently marked with a broad, bright orange longitudinal stripe. Its body is also dark, often with some orange on the thorax.
