Skiff Moth
Common NameSkiff Moth
Scientific NameProlimacodes badia
FamilyLimacodidae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, tan, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Nova Scotia south to Florida, west to Texas and Kansas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, cherry, birch, willow, hickory, beech, chestnut
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larva is a slug-like caterpillar, typically green with yellow stripes, which moves with a gliding motion. It pupates in a hard, oval cocoon often attached to a leaf or twig.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark brown forewings with the prominent, irregular pale band. The stout body and small size are also characteristic.
Description
A small, stout-bodied moth with rich dark brown forewings featuring a broad, irregular, pale tan to whitish band extending from the costa to the inner margin.
