Sooty-winged Chalcoela Moth
Common NameSooty-winged Chalcoela Moth
Scientific NameChalcoela iphitalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilyGlaphyriinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsbrown, orange, grey
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsspider egg sacs (e.g., Araneidae)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are parasitic, feeding on the eggs and developing spiderlings within the egg sacs of various orb-weaving spiders. Pupation occurs inside the spider egg sac.
Identification TipsLook for the combination of mottled grey-brown forewings with a white line, bright orange hindwings and abdomen, and striking green eyes. Often found near spider webs.
Description
A small moth with mottled grey-brown forewings featuring a distinct white subterminal line, and bright orange hindwings and abdomen. It has prominent green eyes.
