White-patch Bark Moth
Common NameWhite-patch Bark Moth
Scientific NamePhigalia titea
FamilyGeometridae
SubfamilyEnnominae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, black, white
HabitatDeciduous and mixed forests, woodlands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, maple, birch, elm, cherry, apple, willow
Flight PeriodFebruary to April
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUnivoltine, with larvae feeding on various deciduous trees. Pupation occurs in the soil, and adults emerge in late winter to early spring. Females are flightless and have vestigial wings.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and grey forewings with wavy lines, a distinct white patch on the costa, and feathery antennae in males. Its early flight period in late winter/early spring is also characteristic.
Description
A medium-sized moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, featuring wavy dark lines and a prominent white patch near the costa. The hindwings are paler with faint lines.
