Thin-banded Lichen Moth
Common NameThin-banded Lichen Moth
Scientific NameCisthene tenuifascia
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyArctiinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark gray, orange
HabitatWoodlands, forests, areas with lichens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantslichens, algae
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on lichens and algae growing on trees and rocks. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, and adults are typically nocturnal.
Identification TipsLook for the small size, dark gray forewings with a single, narrow orange band, and the orange head and thorax. Distinguish from similar lichen moths by the specific width and placement of the orange band.
Description
A small moth characterized by its dark gray forewings adorned with a distinct, relatively thin orange transverse band. Its head and thorax are also orange.
