Thin-lined Owlet
Common NameThin-lined Owlet
Scientific NamePhalaenostola metonalis
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyBoletobiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey-brown
HabitatDeciduous woodlands, forests, forest edges
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsdead leaves, detritus
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on dead leaves and decaying plant matter. The moth undergoes complete metamorphosis, typically having multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, overall mottled brown coloration, and the characteristic faint, wavy lines across the forewings. The forewing apex is somewhat pointed.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown and greyish-brown forewings, featuring faint, wavy transverse lines and small dark discal spots. Its appearance allows it to blend seamlessly with bark or dead leaves.
