Plum-slug Moth
Common NamePlum-slug Moth
Scientific NameAdoneta spinuloides
FamilyLimacodidae
SubfamilyLimacodinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, yellow
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, orchards, and areas with host trees.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba.
Host Plantsplum, oak, cherry, birch, maple, apple, hickory, willow
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are slug-like, green, and covered with spiny tubercles, feeding on the underside of leaves. They pupate in a hard, cup-shaped cocoon attached to a twig or leaf.
Identification TipsKey identification features include the vibrant green coloration of the head, thorax, and forewings, combined with the distinctive large brown patch on each forewing. The slug-like larva is also very characteristic.
Description
This moth has a fuzzy, bright green body and forewings, each marked with a prominent, irregular brown patch. The hindwings are typically yellowish-brown.
