Rare Kitten Moth
Common NameRare Kitten Moth
Scientific NameAmericerura rarata
FamilyNotodontidae
SubfamilyCerurinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantswillow, poplar, birch
Flight PeriodMay to August (multiple broods in the south)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically green with a dorsal hump and a bifurcated tail, feeding on the leaves of host trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its striking white and black pattern, particularly the wavy black lines on the forewings and the distinct black spots on the white thorax.
Description
A medium-sized moth with a fuzzy white body and white wings adorned with intricate black wavy lines and several black-ringed spots. The thorax features prominent black spots.
