Orange-spotted Idia Moth
Common NameOrange-spotted Idia Moth
Scientific NameIdia aemula
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHerminiinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, orange
HabitatWoodlands, forests, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsdecaying leaves, detritus, various low-growing plants
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying leaves and other organic matter on the forest floor. They overwinter as larvae.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled grey-brown forewings with two prominent, often orange or yellowish, spots: one reniform and one orbicular. The overall pattern provides excellent camouflage.
Description
A small, mottled grey-brown moth with distinct orange or yellowish spots on its forewings, often appearing cryptic against bark or stone.
