Skunkback Monopis Moth
Common NameSkunkback Monopis Moth
Scientific NameMonopis spilotella
FamilyTineidae
SubfamilyTineinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsbrown, white
HabitatVarious habitats, often associated with fungi, detritus, and animal products
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsfungi, detritus, animal products (feathers, hair, wool)
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are scavengers, feeding on a variety of organic materials such as fungi, detritus, and animal products. They pupate in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for the small size and the unique mottled pattern of dark brown and white on the forewings, particularly the prominent white patch near the wing base and a contrasting dark patch further along the wing.
Description
A small moth characterized by its mottled dark brown and white forewings, featuring a distinct white patch near the base and a dark central patch. The head and thorax are pale.
