Plain cloak moth
Common NamePlain cloak moth
Scientific NameColocasia propinquilinea
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyPantheinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsbrown, purple, blue
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmaple, birch, oak, beech, elm, willow
Flight PeriodMarch to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are typically green with white stripes and feed on the foliage of various deciduous trees. They undergo pupation in a cocoon, often found in leaf litter or shallow soil.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the robust body, the distinctive mottled brown and iridescent purplish-blue forewings with wavy patterns, and the plainer brown hindwings. It is often found in forested areas.
Description
This moth features mottled brown forewings with striking iridescent purplish-blue scaling and wavy dark lines, particularly noticeable in the median and subterminal areas. The hindwings are a plainer, duller brown.
