Red-winged Quaker
Common NameRed-winged Quaker
Scientific NameOrthosia erythrolita
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsgray, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas and Manitoba)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry, elm
Flight PeriodFebruary to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, with larvae feeding in spring. Pupation occurs in the soil, and the species overwinters as a pupa, with adults emerging in late winter or early spring.
Identification TipsKey features include its early flight period (one of the first moths of spring), mottled gray-brown forewings, and the characteristic wavy dark postmedial line. The common name 'Red-winged' refers to a subtle reddish tint that may be present but is not always prominent.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled gray-brown forewings, featuring indistinct dark reniform and orbicular spots, and a distinct wavy dark postmedial line. The thorax is densely hairy and dark brown.
