Somber Spragueia
Common NameSomber Spragueia
Scientific NameSpragueia obatra
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyEustrotiinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsblack, orange, yellow
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, and gardens where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas.
Host Plantsragweed (Ambrosia spp.), other Asteraceae
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Larvae are caterpillars that feed on herbaceous plants, primarily ragweed, before pupating.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its unique and vivid black, orange, and yellow striped pattern, especially on the forewings, which makes it easily identifiable among small moths in its range.
Description
A small, slender moth with a striking pattern of bold black, orange, and yellow transverse bands across its forewings and abdomen.
