Rectangular Tripudia Moth
Common NameRectangular Tripudia Moth
Scientific NameTripudia rectangula
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyBoletobiinae
Wingspan (mm)16.5
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, bronze, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with abundant lichens
Geographic RangeEastern and central North America (e.g., eastern and central United States)
Host Plantslichens
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known to feed on lichens, undergoing complete metamorphosis through egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages. Adults are nocturnal.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, overall dark brown and cryptic coloration, and the distinctive rectangular-like markings and metallic highlights on the forewings.
Description
A small, dark brown moth with forewings featuring complex, somewhat rectangular patterns of darker bands and patches, often with a subtle metallic bronze or coppery sheen. The hindwings are typically plainer and darker.
