Redtail Moth
Common NameRedtail Moth
Scientific NameOxydia vesulia
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)50
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, greenish-tan, dark brown
HabitatTropical and subtropical forests, woodlands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeSouthern North America, Mexico, Central America, South America
Host PlantsPsidium, Eugenia, Citrus, Coffea, Acacia, Quercus, Eucalyptus
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically twig mimics, often green or brown, feeding on a variety of broadleaf plants. They pupate in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the highly angular and wavy wing margins, particularly on the hindwings, the mottled brown and grey cryptic pattern resembling a dead leaf, and the two distinct dark discal spots on the forewings.
Description
A medium-sized moth with angular, leaf-like wings, mottled in shades of brown, grey, and greenish-tan, featuring two prominent dark discal spots on the forewings. Its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage against bark or dead leaves.
