Southern Ugly-nest Caterpillar Moth
Common NameSouthern Ugly-nest Caterpillar Moth
Scientific NamePsilocorsis cryptolechiella
FamilyDepressariidae
SubfamilyDepressariinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, willow
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as 'ugly-nest caterpillars,' are gregarious and feed within nests formed by tying together leaves of their host plants. Pupation occurs within these leaf nests.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, distinctive orange-brown color with dark spots, and its characteristic resting posture with flattened wings. The presence of its larval 'ugly nests' on host trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
This small moth has a uniform orange-brown coloration on its forewings, which are adorned with scattered, small dark brown spots. When at rest, its wings are held flat over the body, giving it a somewhat rectangular appearance.
