Waterlily Owlet
Common NameWaterlily Owlet
Scientific NameBellura obliqua
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyXyleninae
Wingspan (mm)37.5
Primary Colorsbrown, dark brown, yellowish-brown
HabitatAquatic environments, ponds, lakes, slow-moving streams, wetlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Nova Scotia to Florida, west to Manitoba and Texas)
Host Plantswater lilies, spatterdock, pickerelweed, water hyacinth
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are aquatic borers, living and feeding inside the stems and rhizomes of various aquatic plants, such as water lilies. Pupation occurs within the host plant stems or in the surrounding soil.
Identification TipsLook for its mottled brown, cryptic coloration and robust body. Key features include the indistinct reniform and orbicular spots on the forewings, and its presence near aquatic habitats where its host plants grow.
Description
A medium-sized, robust moth with mottled brown forewings that provide excellent camouflage. The forewings feature various shades of brown, often with darker streaks and indistinct lighter spots.
