Sociable Acontia
Common NameSociable Acontia
Scientific NameAcontia insocia
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcontiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgreen, brown, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, gardens, open fields
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsAmbrosia artemisiifolia, Eupatorium, Solidago
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are loopers that feed on the leaves of various herbaceous plants, particularly those in the Asteraceae family. They pupate in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or soil, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive, highly mottled forewing pattern combining greens, browns, and whites, which provides excellent camouflage. Its small size and robust body are also characteristic.
Description
A small moth with forewings cryptically patterned in mottled shades of green, brown, white, and black, often resembling lichen or bird droppings. The hindwings are typically paler, grayish-brown.
