Spragueia cleta
(Druce, 1889)
Common Spragueia Moth
Spragueia cleta is a small in the Noctuidae, commonly known as the Common Spragueia Moth. It belongs to the bird dropping moth group, a guild of whose cryptic coloration mimics avian as a defense against . The species was described by Druce in 1889 and is found in North America.
Pronunciation
How to pronounce Spragueia cleta: //sprəˈɡeɪ.iə ˈkleɪ.tə//
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Identification
As a bird dropping moth, Spragueia cleta likely exhibits cryptic coloration resembling bird —typically mottled gray, white, and black patterns. The MONA/Hodges number 9123 provides a standardized reference for North American identification. Definitive identification requires examination of genitalia or comparison with similar Spragueia .
Images
Distribution
North America.
Behavior
are attracted to artificial light sources, as observed during -watching events. The is .
Human Relevance
The has been documented during citizen science events such as National Week and Mothapalooza, contributing to public engagement with lepidopteran diversity. Its Hodges number (9123) facilitates standardized recording in North American moth databases.
Similar Taxa
- Other Spragueia speciesCongeneric share similar size, wing shape, and bird-dropping mimicry coloration, requiring careful examination or dissection for reliable separation.
More Details
Taxonomic Note
GBIF lists this as a synonym under Acontia cleta, while Catalogue of Life and NCBI maintain it as Spragueia cleta. This indicates ongoing taxonomic discussion regarding generic placement within Acontiinae.