Powdered Quaker
Common NamePowdered Quaker
Scientific NameMelanchra pulverulenta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, black, white
HabitatForests, woodlands, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry, apple, blueberry
Flight PeriodApril to June, sometimes a second brood in late summer
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs, and typically pupate in the soil.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its powdery, mottled grey-black forewings with a pale subterminal line and often a prominent pale patch near the apex, which helps it blend seamlessly with bark.
Description
A medium-sized moth with highly cryptic, mottled grey, black, and white forewings that provide excellent camouflage against tree bark, featuring distinct reniform and orbicular spots.
