Pale-shouldered Cloud
Common NamePale-shouldered Cloud
Scientific NameAthetis tarda
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas.
Host Plantsdandelion, plantain, clover, smartweed, various low-growing herbaceous plants
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are generalist feeders on a variety of low-growing herbaceous plants. The species typically overwinters in the pupal stage.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive pale, somewhat triangular patches at the base of the forewings near the thorax, which give the moth its common name. The overall cryptic pattern of browns and greys helps it blend into its environment.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled forewings displaying shades of brown, grey, and white, characterized by distinct pale patches on the 'shoulders' near the thorax.
