Sweet Pepperbush Nola Moth
Common NameSweet Pepperbush Nola Moth
Scientific NameNola clethrae
FamilyNolidae
SubfamilyNolinae
Wingspan (mm)16
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, swampy areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Texas and Missouri)
Host PlantsClethra alnifolia (Sweet Pepperbush)
Flight PeriodMay to September (often two broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of Sweet Pepperbush. Like other moths, it undergoes complete metamorphosis from egg to larva (caterpillar), pupa, and finally the adult moth.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive mottled grey and dark brown forewing pattern with two prominent dark bands, and its association with Sweet Pepperbush. The antennae are feathery, especially in males.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey and dark brown bands across its forewings, giving it a camouflaged appearance against bark or lichen.
