Sensitive Fern Borer Moth
Common NameSensitive Fern Borer Moth
Scientific NamePapaipema inquaesita
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, orange-yellow
HabitatMoist woodlands, swamps, wet meadows, areas with Sensitive Fern
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Wisconsin and Missouri)
Host PlantsSensitive Fern (Onoclea sensibilis)
Flight PeriodLate August to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are borers, feeding internally within the stems and rhizomes of Sensitive Fern. Pupation occurs within the host plant or in the soil, with adults emerging in late summer and fall.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive reddish-brown and orange-yellow mottled forewings with prominent darker venation, a robust hairy body, and its late flight period. Its strong association with Sensitive Fern is also a crucial identifier.
Description
A robust, medium-sized moth with densely hairy reddish-brown head and thorax. Its forewings are a striking mix of reddish-brown and bright orange-yellow, featuring an intricate mottled and reticulated pattern of darker veins and lighter patches.
