Recluse Moth
Common NameRecluse Moth
Scientific NameAthetis reclusa
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAmphipyrinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, fields, gardens, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, grasses, dandelion, plantain
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous, feeding on a variety of low-growing herbaceous plants. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its overall cryptic brown and grey coloration, relatively small size, and the presence of a subtle pale reniform spot on the forewing, though markings can be variable.
Description
A small, drab moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, often featuring indistinct darker lines and a small, pale reniform spot. The hindwings are typically paler grey.
