Southern Scurfy Quaker
Common NameSouthern Scurfy Quaker
Scientific NameLithophane georgii
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)40
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, gray, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, mixed forests, suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southeastern Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow, cherry
Flight PeriodSeptember to November (fall flight), March to April (spring flight)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on deciduous trees in spring and early summer, pupating in the soil. Adults emerge in the fall, overwinter, and then mate and lay eggs in early spring.
Identification TipsLook for the mottled reddish-brown and gray forewings with a somewhat rough or 'scurfy' texture. The species is characterized by its overwintering adult stage, flying in both fall and early spring.
Description
This is a medium-sized moth with mottled reddish-brown and gray forewings, giving it a 'scurfy' appearance, often with indistinct dark markings and a prominent reniform spot.
