Toothed Idia Moth
Common NameToothed Idia Moth
Scientific NameIdia aemula
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyHerminiinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, off-white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantsdecaying leaves, fungi, lichens, detritus
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are detritivores, feeding on decaying organic matter. The species typically overwinters as a larva.
Identification TipsKey features include the prominent, forward-projecting labial palps (giving a 'snout' appearance), the wavy transverse lines on the forewings, and the scalloped outer margin of the wings.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey and brown forewings featuring distinct wavy dark lines and a scalloped outer margin.
