Splendid Palpita Moth
Common NameSplendid Palpita Moth
Scientific NamePalpita magniferalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, white
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsAsh (Fraxinus spp.), Lilac (Syringa vulgaris), Privet (Ligustrum spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are green caterpillars that feed on the leaves of ash, lilac, and privet, often rolling leaves for shelter before pupating. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled brown and tan forewings with prominent irregular white patches, especially along the costa. Its association with ash, lilac, and privet host plants is also a key indicator.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled brown and tan wings, featuring irregular whitish patches on the forewings and a slender, pale body.
