Powder Moth
Common NamePowder Moth
Scientific NameEupithecia miserulata
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyLarentiinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream
HabitatWoodlands, gardens, disturbed areas, open fields
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread across Canada and the United States)
Host Plantsaster, goldenrod, willow, oak, maple, apple, clover
Flight PeriodMarch to November (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are 'inchworms' or 'loopers' that feed on a wide variety of plants, pupating in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the characteristic mottled brown and cream pattern resembling lichen or bark, and a prominent dark discal spot on the forewings. The overall 'powdery' appearance is also a key feature.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled brown and cream-white wings, often appearing 'dusty' or 'powdery'. Its forewings typically feature a dark discal spot and wavy crosslines.
