Speckled Green Fruitworm Moth
Common NameSpeckled Green Fruitworm Moth
Scientific NameOrthosia hibisci
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, gray
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, orchards, gardens, and areas with host trees and shrubs
Geographic RangeNorth America, from coast to coast, south to Florida and Texas, and north into Canada.
Host Plantsapple, cherry, peach, plum, oak, maple, birch, willow, poplar
Flight PeriodMarch to May (early spring)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesAdults emerge in early spring, often overwintering as adults. Eggs are laid on host plants, and larvae (the 'fruitworms') feed on buds, leaves, and developing fruit during late spring and early summer. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its early spring flight period, the mottled brownish-gray forewings with prominent reniform and orbicular spots, and the overall 'speckled' appearance. The specific pattern of the transverse lines and the shape of the spots can help distinguish it from similar *Orthosia* species.
Description
This moth has mottled brownish-gray forewings with intricate darker brown markings, including distinct kidney-shaped (reniform) and circular (orbicular) spots, and wavy transverse lines. The hindwings are typically a uniform grayish-brown.
