Ponometia erastrioides
(Guenée, 1852)
small bird-dropping moth, small bird lime moth
A small noctuid with a wingspan of 16–20 mm, named for its resemblance to bird droppings. are active from May to September across eastern North America. The larvae feed on Ambrosia and reach 25 mm at maturity.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Ponometia erastrioides: /ˌpoʊnəˈmiːʃə ɛˌræstriˈoʊdiːz/
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Identification
Wingspan 16–20 mm. Distinguished from other bird-dropping by its smaller size and specific wing patterning that mimics excrement. Full-grown larvae reach 25 mm.
Images
Habitat
Fields, waste places, and riparian areas.
Distribution
Eastern United States and south-central Canada (Quebec, Ontario, Saskatchewan).
Seasonality
on wing from May to September.
Diet
Larvae feed on Ambrosia .