Tufted Bird-dropping Moth
Common NameTufted Bird-dropping Moth
Scientific NameCerma cerintha
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyAcronictinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black, blue
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsoak, hickory
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are also cryptic, resembling bird droppings or bark, and feed on the leaves of host trees. They pupate in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or soil, overwintering as pupae.
Identification TipsKey features include its 'bird-dropping' camouflage, the raised tufts on the thorax and forewings, and the bright iridescent blue-green spots at the base of the forewings. Its robust body and broad wings are also characteristic.
Description
A small, robust moth with a highly cryptic, mottled pattern of white, various shades of brown, and black, featuring prominent raised tufts on its thorax and forewings, and distinctive iridescent blue-green spots near the base of the forewings.
