Washed-out Zale Moth
Common NameWashed-out Zale Moth
Scientific NameZale minerea
FamilyErebidae
SubfamilyErebinae
Wingspan (mm)42
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host Plantsmaple, birch, oak, willow, poplar
Flight PeriodApril to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are semi-loopers that feed on the leaves of various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown forewings with wavy lines, the prominent reniform spot, and the overall 'washed-out' or faded look compared to other Zale species.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey-brown forewings, featuring wavy lines and a distinct, often pale-ringed reniform spot, giving it a somewhat faded appearance.
