Yellow Sunflower Moth
Common NameYellow Sunflower Moth
Scientific NameCondica discigera
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyCondicinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorsyellow, brown
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America, from southern Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantssunflower, ragweed, coneflower
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves and flowers of various Asteraceae plants, primarily sunflowers. The species typically overwinters as a pupa in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive bright yellow and dark brown blotchy pattern on the forewings, often with a prominent yellow patch in the median area. The robust body and typical 'noctuid' resting posture are also helpful.
Description
This moth features striking forewings with bright yellow patches contrasting sharply with dark brown, mottled areas. The hindwings are typically a duller gray-brown.
