Forest-moth
Guides
Acleris nigrolinea
Black-lined Acleris
Acleris nigrolinea is a tortricid moth native to North America, commonly known as the Black-lined Acleris. The species exhibits broad geographic distribution across Canada and the United States. Adults are active nearly year-round in suitable climates. Larvae feed on a diverse range of woody plants including birch, cherry, poplar, fir, pine, and willow.
Acronicta fragilis
Fragile Dagger, fragile dagger moth
Acronicta fragilis, commonly known as the fragile dagger moth, is a small noctuid moth native to North America. First described by Guenée in 1852, it ranges from Newfoundland south to Florida and west across Canada. The species is listed as a species of special concern in Connecticut. Adults are active in early summer, with larvae feeding on several deciduous tree species.
Acronicta hamamelis
witch hazel dagger moth, puzzling dagger moth
Acronicta hamamelis is a noctuid moth first described by Achille Guenée in 1852. The species is closely associated with witch-hazel (Hamamelis), which serves as the larval host plant. It occurs in eastern North America, with records from Canada and the northeastern and mid-Atlantic United States. The common name "puzzling dagger moth" reflects historical identification challenges.
Acronicta hasta
forked dagger moth, speared dagger moth, cherry dagger moth, dart dagger moth
Acronicta hasta is a noctuid moth native to eastern North American deciduous woodlands. Adults have a wingspan of 35–45 mm and are active from April to September, with multiple generations in southern portions of the range. The species was first described by Achille Guenée in 1852; Acronicta furcifera was synonymized with it in 1998. Three subspecies are recognized: A. h. hasta, A. h. telum, and A. h. manitoba.
Acronicta innotata
Unmarked Dagger, birch dagger, unmarked dagger moth
Acronicta innotata, commonly known as the unmarked dagger moth or birch dagger, is a noctuid moth species first described by Guenée in 1852. It is widely distributed across northern North America, from Newfoundland to British Columbia, with southern extensions along the eastern United States. The species is named for its relatively plain wing pattern compared to other dagger moths, and its larvae feed on the leaves of several deciduous tree species.
Acronicta insita
Large Gray Dagger, Fingered Dagger
Acronicta insita, commonly known as the Large Gray Dagger or Fingered Dagger, is a noctuid moth found across North America from Newfoundland to the Pacific coast. The species was first described by Francis Walker in 1856. Formerly, Acronicta hesperida and Acronicta dactylina were treated as separate species but are now recognized as synonyms. Adults have a wingspan of 45–55 mm and fly from May to July.
Acronicta lanceolaria
lanceolate dagger moth, pointed dagger
Acronicta lanceolaria is a noctuid moth native to North America, ranging from Nova Scotia to British Columbia. The species was described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1875. Adults fly in early June in a single generation. It is listed as a species of special concern and believed extirpated in Connecticut.
Acronicta lithospila
Streaked Dagger, streaked dagger moth
Acronicta lithospila is a noctuid moth commonly known as the streaked dagger moth. Described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1874, this species occurs in eastern North America from Canada south to the United States. Adults fly during summer months, and larvae feed on hardwood trees including hickory, oak, and chestnut.
Acronicta longa
long-winged dagger moth
Acronicta longa is a North American noctuid moth commonly known as the long-winged dagger moth. The species was first described by Achille Guenée in 1852. Adults have a wingspan of 32–44 mm. Larvae feed on the foliage of several woody plant species including birch, oak, and willow.
Actias
Moon Moths, Asian-American Moon Moths
Actias is a genus of Saturniid moths commonly known as moon moths, distributed across Asia and the Americas. The genus is distinguished by elongated hindwing tails and includes well-known species such as the Luna moth (A. luna) of North America and the Spanish moon moth (A. isabellae) of Europe. Adult moths lack functional mouthparts, limiting their lifespan to several days to one week after emergence. Caterpillars feed on leaves of various woody plants including sweetgum, pine, hickory, walnut, and birch.
Alarodia slossoniae
Packard's White Slug Moth
Alarodia slossoniae, known as Packard's White Slug Moth, is a North American moth in the family Limacodidae. The common name refers to the slug-like appearance of its caterpillar, a trait characteristic of this family. Adults are small moths with white or pale coloration. The species was originally described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1893 under the genus Eupoeya before being transferred to Alarodia.
Archips grisea
Gray Archips Moth, Black Shield Leafroller
Archips grisea is a small tortricid moth with a wingspan of 18–22 mm, found across central and eastern North America. Larvae feed on hickory species (Carya), rolling or tying leaves for shelter. Adults are active during summer months. The species is also known as the black shield leafroller, referring to larval feeding damage.
Archips strianus
striated tortrix moth, striated leafroller
Archips strianus, commonly known as the striated tortrix moth or striated leafroller, is a leafroller moth in the family Tortricidae. It is native to North America, with records from Canada and the northern United States. The species is associated with coniferous hosts, particularly spruce species.
Argyrotaenia dorsalana
Argyrotaenia dorsalana is a small tortricid moth of western North America, with a wingspan of 18–24 mm. The species is associated with coniferous forests, where its larvae feed primarily on Douglas-fir, western hemlock, and western larch. Adults emerge in late June following a brief larval period in spring and overwintering in the egg stage.
Autographa mappa
Wavy Chestnut Y Moth, Wavy Chestnut Y
Autographa mappa, commonly known as the Wavy Chestnut Y Moth, is a North American noctuid moth first described by Grote and Robinson in 1868. Adults have a wingspan of 35–40 mm and are active from June to August, with one generation per year. The species inhabits wooded regions across Canada and the northern United States.
Caloptilia blandella
Walnut Caloptilia Moth
Caloptilia blandella is a small moth in the family Gracillariidae, commonly known as the Walnut Caloptilia Moth. It has a wingspan of approximately 9 mm. The species is distributed across eastern North America, with records from Canada (Québec) and several U.S. states including Pennsylvania, Virginia, Maine, Maryland, Texas, and Kentucky. Larvae are leaf miners that feed on shagbark hickory (Carya ovata) and black walnut (Juglans nigra).
Catocala angusi
Angus' Underwing
Catocala angusi, known as Angus' Underwing, is a moth in the family Erebidae. It is distinguished by its cryptic forewings that conceal brightly patterned hindwings, a characteristic defense mechanism of underwing moths. The species occurs across the eastern and central United States, with adults active from July through October. Larval development is tied to hickory trees, specifically pecan and shagbark hickory.
Catocala badia coelebs
The Old Maid Underwing
Catocala badia coelebs is a subspecies of underwing moth in the family Erebidae, commonly known as The Old Maid Underwing. Like other members of the genus Catocala, it is characterized by cryptic forewings that conceal brightly colored hindwings, which are exposed when the moth is disturbed. The subspecies was described by Grote in 1874 and is known from northeastern North America.
Catocala concumbens
Pink Underwing, Sleepy Underwing
Catocala concumbens, commonly known as the pink underwing or sleepy underwing, is a medium-sized moth in the family Erebidae. The species was first described by Francis Walker in 1858. It is distinguished by its cryptic forewings and brightly colored hindwings, a characteristic defensive trait of the genus Catocala. The moth occurs in eastern North America, extending westward across the Prairie Provinces to eastern Alberta. Adults are active in August, with larvae feeding on Populus and Salix species.
Catocala grynea
Woody Underwing
Catocala grynea, the Woody Underwing, is an underwing moth in the family Erebidae. First described by Pieter Cramer in 1780, this species is distributed across eastern and central North America from Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas. Adults are active from May to September, with likely one generation per year. The larvae feed on woody plants in the rose family.
Catocala herodias herodias
Herodias Underwing
Catocala herodias herodias is a subspecies of underwing moth in the family Erebidae. The genus Catocala, meaning "beautiful below," comprises over 250 species known for their cryptic forewings that conceal brightly colored hindwings. When at rest, the forewings provide camouflage against tree bark; when disturbed, the moth reveals vivid hindwing patterns of orange, red, black, white, or blue that startle predators. This subspecies is part of the North American underwing fauna, with adults typically active during summer months. Like other Catocala, they are primarily nocturnal and often associated with wooded habitats.
Catocala ilia
Ilia Underwing, Beloved Underwing, Wife Underwing
Catocala ilia is a nocturnal moth in the family Erebidae, first described by Pieter Cramer in 1776. The species is notable for its highly variable forewing patterns and strikingly colored hindwings, which are typically concealed at rest. It occurs across eastern North America with a disjunct population in the southwestern United States represented by a distinct subspecies.
Catocala insolabilis
Inconsolable Underwing
Catocala insolabilis, commonly known as the inconsolable underwing, is a moth in the family Erebidae. The species was described by Achille Guenée in 1852. It is characterized by the typical underwing morphology: cryptic forewings that conceal brightly colored hindwings when at rest. Adults are active from June to August with one generation per year.
Catocala muliercula
Little Wife Underwing
Catocala muliercula, known as the Little Wife Underwing, is a moth in the family Erebidae. It is one of more than 250 species in the genus Catocala, commonly called underwing moths due to their habit of concealing brightly colored hindwings beneath cryptic forewings when at rest. This species occurs across eastern and central North America, from Massachusetts to Florida and west to Texas and New Mexico. Like other underwings, it is primarily nocturnal and attracted to lights.
Cecrita cubana
Cecrita cubana is a species of prominent moth in the family Notodontidae, described by Grote in 1866. It belongs to the genus Cecrita, a group of North American moths whose larvae are known as "prominents" due to their characteristic humps or projections. The species epithet "cubana" suggests a possible Caribbean association, though the species occurs in North America. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light.
Ceranemota fasciata
Ceranemota fasciata is a moth in the family Drepanidae (hook-tip moths) described by William Barnes and James Halliday McDunnough in 1910. It occurs in western North America from coastal southern Alaska through British Columbia to northern California. The species inhabits coastal rainforests, mixed hardwood forests, and montane riparian areas. Larvae feed on Amelanchier alnifolia and various Prunus species including P. ilicifolia and P. virginiana.
Chionodes bicostomaculella
Two-spotted Chionodes Moth
Chionodes bicostomaculella is a small gelechiid moth found in eastern North America. Adults display distinctive dark forewings with ochreous costal spots and irregular transverse banding. Larvae are known to feed on oak species (Quercus). The species was described by Chambers in 1872.
Choristoneura carnana
Choristoneura carnana is a species of tortricid moth first described from the western United States in 1920. It is a conifer-feeding specialist with documented larval associations with fir and Douglas-fir species. The species exhibits a relatively broad adult flight period spanning late spring through summer. Two subspecies are recognized, differing in geographic distribution within the species' range.
Choristoneura orae
spruce budworm
Choristoneura orae is a small tortricid moth found in North America, commonly known as the spruce budworm. The species has a wingspan of approximately 24 mm. Larvae feed on Picea (spruce) species. It belongs to the genus Choristoneura, which includes several economically important forest pests.
Choristoneura retiniana
Modoc budworm
Choristoneura retiniana is a conifer-feeding tortricid moth known as the Modoc budworm. It occurs in California, Nevada, and Oregon, where it feeds primarily on true firs (Abies spp.), particularly white fir. The species is sympatric with the western spruce budworm (C. occidentalis) in mixed conifer stands, and the two species hybridize in nature. Larvae are characteristically green, distinguishing them from the brown larvae of C. occidentalis. The species exhibits density-dependent parasitoid complexes that may serve as indicators of population trends.
Cladara limitaria
mottled gray carpet moth, Mottled Gray Carpet
Cladara limitaria is a geometrid moth found across North America from Alaska to Newfoundland and south to Alabama. Adults are active in spring, with a wingspan of 21–28 mm. Larvae feed on sheep laurel and conifers. The species inhabits deciduous, mixed, and coniferous forests and is attracted to light.
Conservula anodonta
Sharp Angle Shades
Conservula anodonta, known as the sharp angle shades, is a noctuid moth species native to North America. Adults are medium-sized with distinctive wing markings and are active during summer months. The species is associated with forested habitats and exhibits typical nocturnal behavior of its family, including attraction to light sources.
Coptodisca ostryaefoliella
Coptodisca ostryaefoliella is a small moth in the family Heliozelidae, described by James Brackenridge Clemens in 1861. It belongs to a genus whose larvae are leaf miners, creating distinctive blotch mines on host plant foliage. The species is found in North America, with records from Ohio and surrounding regions.
Crambidia xanthocorpa
Yellow-bodied Lichen Moth
Crambidia xanthocorpa, commonly known as the Yellow-bodied Lichen Moth, is a species of lichen moth in the family Erebidae. Described by Lewis in 2014, it is a relatively recently recognized species within the genus Crambidia. The species is characterized by its distinctive yellow coloration, which is reflected in both its specific epithet (xanthocorpa, meaning 'yellow body') and its common name. It belongs to a genus of moths whose larvae are known to feed on lichens.
Cyclophora pendulinaria
sweetfern geometer moth, pearly-grey wave
A small geometrid moth with wingspan 17–26 mm, found across much of North America from Newfoundland to the Yukon and south to Georgia. Adults are active from spring through fall, with larvae feeding on sweetfern (Comptonia) and alder (Alnus) leaves. The species inhabits moist to mesic forests.
Dasychira basiflava
Yellow-based Tussock Moth, yellow-based tussock
Dasychira basiflava, commonly known as the Yellow-based Tussock Moth, is a species of tussock moth in the family Erebidae. First described by Alpheus Spring Packard in 1864, this species exhibits pronounced sexual dimorphism in size, with females substantially larger than males. It is widely distributed across eastern and central North America, with populations extending from southeastern Alaska to the southern United States. The species shows geographic variation in voltinism, with one generation per year in northern regions and partial second generations in the south.
Diarsia esurialis
Diarsia esurialis is a noctuid moth species native to the Pacific coast of North America. It is abundant in wet coastal forests from Alaska through California. Adults fly in midsummer and have a wingspan of approximately 33 mm. The larvae feed on foliage of Corylus (hazelnut) and Alnus (alder).
Eacles imperialis imperialis
Imperial moth
Eacles imperialis imperialis is a subspecies of giant silk moth in the family Saturniidae. Adults are large, colorful moths with yellow and purple-brown patterning. Unlike many related silk moths, larvae do not spin silk cocoons; instead they burrow into soil to pupate. The subspecies has experienced significant population declines in parts of New England, including extirpation from Connecticut, though it remains widespread across much of North, Central, and South America.
Ellida caniplaga
Linden Prominent, linden prominent moth
Ellida caniplaga, the linden prominent moth, is a North American notodontid moth distributed across eastern and central United States and Canada. Adults fly from April through September with two generations annually in southern populations. The species is strongly associated with Tilia (linden/basswood) trees, upon which larvae feed.
Epimecis hortaria
tulip-tree beauty
Epimecis hortaria, commonly known as the tulip-tree beauty, is a geometer moth native to North America. It is one of the larger species in its family, with a wingspan reaching 43–55 mm. The species exhibits two distinct color morphs and has a broad flight season spanning early spring through autumn.
Epinotia radicana
Red-striped Needleworm Moth
Epinotia radicana is a small tortricid moth known for its association with coniferous forests across northern North America. The species is recognized by its common name referencing the reddish larval stripes and needle-feeding habits. It has been documented from western Canada through to the northeastern United States, with a life cycle tightly synchronized to the phenology of its host trees. The species is not considered a significant forest pest despite its widespread occurrence in spruce-fir ecosystems.
Episimus tyrius
Maple Tip Borer Moth, Maple Leaftier Moth
Episimus tyrius, commonly known as the Maple Tip Borer Moth or Maple Leaftier Moth, is a tortricid moth species described by Heinrich in 1923. The species is primarily associated with maple trees, with larvae that bore into leaf tips or tie leaves together. It occurs in the eastern United States, where it has been documented from New York south to Florida and west to Texas. The species is relatively well-documented, with over 500 observations recorded.
Eugonobapta nivosaria
Snowy Geometer Moth, Snowy Geometer
Eugonobapta nivosaria, commonly known as the Snowy Geometer Moth, is a species of geometrid moth found in eastern North America. The species was first described by Guenée in 1857 and is recognized by its distinctive white or pale coloration. It is a well-documented species with over 3,600 observations recorded on iNaturalist, indicating it is relatively common and conspicuous within its range. The moth occurs in deciduous and mixed forest habitats where its larvae feed on various woody plants.
Eupithecia annulata
larch pug moth
Eupithecia annulata, commonly known as the larch pug moth, is a small geometrid moth first described by George Duryea Hulst in 1896. The species is notable for its broad distribution across North America, ranging from the Yukon to Newfoundland and south to California and Colorado. Adults are active in spring, with larvae feeding on a diverse array of coniferous and some deciduous host plants including larch, spruce, fir, Douglas-fir, and western red cedar.
Eupsilia schweitzeri
Schweitzer's Sallow
Eupsilia schweitzeri is a moth species in the family Noctuidae, described in 2016 from the northeastern United States. It belongs to the sallow moth genus Eupsilia, which are medium-sized noctuid moths active during late fall, winter, and early spring. The species was named in honor of entomologist Dale F. Schweitzer. Like other members of its genus, it is likely a cold-season active adult with larvae feeding on woody plants.
Euxoa costata
Euxoa costata is a noctuid moth species found in the Pacific Northwest of North America. It is particularly abundant in ponderosa pine forests east of the Cascade Mountains. The species has a wingspan of approximately 34 mm. Like other members of the genus Euxoa, it is a nocturnal species attracted to light.
Fascista
Fascista is a genus of small moths in the family Gelechiidae, established by Busck in 1939. The genus contains three described species found in North America, including the redbud leaffolder moth (F. cercerisella), whose larvae are known to fold leaves of eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) as feeding shelters. These moths are part of the diverse gelechiid fauna associated with deciduous forest habitats.
Furcula
prominent moths
Furcula is a genus of moths in the family Notodontidae, subfamily Cerurinae. The genus contains multiple species distributed across the Holarctic region. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. Larvae are known for their distinctive forked posterior structure, which gives the genus its name (Latin for 'little fork').
Gabriola
Gabriola is a genus of moths in the family Geometridae, subfamily Ennominae, established by Taylor in 1904. The genus comprises approximately 20 described species distributed primarily in western North America. These are medium-sized geometrid moths typically associated with forested and shrubland habitats. The genus name is derived from Gabriola Island in British Columbia, Canada.
Hydrelia albifera
fragile white carpet moth, Fragile White Carpet
Hydrelia albifera is a small geometrid moth with a wingspan of 16–18 mm, found across much of North America from Newfoundland to British Columbia. Adults are active from May to August, with one generation annually in northern regions and two in the south. The larvae feed on specific host plants including red-osier dogwood, alternate-leaved dogwood, and paper birch.
Hypoprepia fucosa
Painted Lichen Moth
A small to medium-sized moth in the family Erebidae, described by Jacob Hübner in 1831. Adults display distinctive wing patterns and are active primarily during summer months in northern populations. The species occupies a broad geographic range across eastern North America, with larvae specializing on cryptogamic growths on tree bark.
Ipimorpha pleonectusa
Even-lined Sallow, Blackcheeked Aspen Caterpillar
Ipimorpha pleonectusa, the Even-lined Sallow, is a noctuid moth native to North America. It is one of two recognized species in the genus Ipimorpha on the continent. The species was described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1873. Adults are nocturnal and attracted to light. The common name 'blackcheeked aspen caterpillar' refers to the larval stage, though specific host plant associations require verification.
Isochaetes beutenmuelleri
Spun Glass Slug Moth
Isochaetes beutenmuelleri, commonly known as the spun glass slug moth, is a small moth in the family Limacodidae. It is named for its distinctive pupal stage, which appears nearly transparent and is covered in spiny, venomous hairs. The species is native to the eastern and central United States, where its larvae feed on oak and beech trees.
Isogona tenuis
Thin-lined Owlet
Isogona tenuis, commonly known as the Thin-lined Owlet, is a moth species in the family Erebidae. First described by Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1872, this species ranges across eastern North America from Ontario south to Florida and Texas. Adults are active from spring through late summer, with timing varying by latitude. The larvae feed exclusively on Celtis (hackberry) species.
Lithacodes
slug caterpillar moths
Lithacodes is a genus of slug caterpillar moths in the family Limacodidae, established by Packard in 1864. The genus contains approximately five described species distributed in North America. Larvae of this genus exhibit the characteristic slug-like form typical of Limacodidae, with reduced prolegs and a broad, flattened body adapted for slow, gliding movement.
Lithacodes fiskeanus
Lithacodes fiskeanus is a species of slug caterpillar moth in the family Limacodidae. The genus Lithacodes contains species known for their distinctive larval morphology, with caterpillars that move with a slug-like gliding motion rather than walking. Adults are small, stout-bodied moths with reduced wing venation typical of the family. This species has been documented from a limited number of observations, suggesting it may be uncommon or geographically restricted.
Lithomoia germana
American Brindle, American Brindle Moth
Lithomoia germana, commonly known as the American Brindle, is a noctuid moth with a broad distribution across northern North America. Adults are bivoltine, active in spring and again in late summer to early autumn. The species is notable for hibernating as an adult, an overwintering strategy that allows early spring emergence. Larvae feed on woody plants in Salicaceae and Betulaceae, while adults visit goldenrod flowers for nectar.
Lycophotia phyllophora
Lycophotia Moth
Lycophotia phyllophora is a noctuid moth with a wingspan of approximately 35 mm. Adults are active during summer months across northeastern North America. Larvae feed on leaves of woody plants in several genera including Alnus, Betula, and Salix. The species was first described by Grote in 1874 under the basionym Agrotis phyllophora.
Macaria fissinotata
Hemlock Angle
Macaria fissinotata, commonly known as the hemlock angle, is a small geometrid moth native to eastern North America. Adults are active from late spring through summer, with flight periods varying by latitude. The species is strongly associated with coniferous forests, where its larvae feed on hemlock, spruce, and fir trees. The specific epithet refers to the often-split forewing spot that serves as a key identification feature.
Macaria graphidaria
Bold-marked Granite
Macaria graphidaria is a North American moth species in the family Geometridae, described by George D. Hulst in 1887. Adults display distinctive wing patterning with bold, dark markings on a lighter background. The species is associated with coniferous forests and has been documented across western North America. Larval stages feed on conifer foliage.
Megalopyge crispata
Black-waved Flannel Moth, Crinkled Flannel Moth, White Flannel Moth
Megalopyge crispata is a flannel moth in the family Megalopygidae, found in the eastern United States from the Atlantic coast westward to Oklahoma. Adults are active from May to October, with one generation annually in northern populations and two or more in southern populations. The species is notable for its venomous caterpillars, which possess hollow urticating hairs capable of delivering painful stings to humans.
Melanolophia imitata
Western Carpet, Green-striped Forest Looper
A spring-flying geometrid moth of western North America, notable for large, pale adults that occur in consistently high abundance. Adults fly during late evening and are less attracted to light than many moth species. The species shows minimal migratory movement but can form dense aggregations that create visible 'clouds' in forested habitats. Larvae are conifer-feeding loopers that prefer Douglas fir, Tsuga, and Abies.
Melanolophia signataria
Signate Melanolophia Moth, signate melanolophia
Melanolophia signataria is a North American geometrid moth with a broad transcontinental range. Adults are active primarily from spring through summer, with larvae feeding on the foliage of numerous deciduous and coniferous tree species. The species shows considerable geographic variation, with a recognized Florida subspecies.
Monoleuca semifascia
Pin-striped Vermilion Slug Moth
Monoleuca semifascia is a slug moth in the family Limacodidae, commonly known as the Pin-striped Vermilion Slug Moth. The species is recognized by its distinctive adult coloration and slug-like larval form characteristic of the family. It has been documented across multiple observation platforms with a notable presence in the eastern United States. The species was originally described by Walker in 1855 under the basionym Limacodes semifascia.
Morophagoides burkerella
Morophagoides burkerella is a small moth species in the family Tineidae, originally described from Washington State in 1904. It belongs to a genus of fungi-feeding moths whose larvae develop in decaying wood and fungal substrates. The species is known from a limited number of records in the Pacific Northwest of the United States.
Morrisonia triangula
Morrisonia triangula is a moth species in the family Noctuidae, described by Sullivan and Adams in 2009. The type locality is in Craven County, North Carolina, within the Croatan National Forest. It is known from the southeastern United States.
Nemoria mimosaria
White-fringed Emerald, Flanged Looper
Nemoria mimosaria is a small emerald moth in the family Geometridae, known by the common names white-fringed emerald and flanged looper. The species was first described by Achille Guenée in 1858. It occurs across much of eastern and central North America, with larvae feeding on a diverse range of woody plants including both deciduous and coniferous trees. Adults are active in early summer and are recognized by their distinctive green coloration with white fringes on the wings.
Nites betulella
Black-dotted Birch Leaftier Moth
Nites betulella, commonly known as the black-dotted birch leaftier moth, is a small moth species in the family Depressariidae. First described by August Busck in 1902, it is distributed across North America from the northeastern United States and Canada westward to British Columbia. The species is notable for its association with birch and other deciduous trees as larval hosts.
Norape
Norape is a genus of moths in the family Megalopygidae, commonly known as flannel moths. The genus was established by Francis Walker in 1855 and contains approximately 60 described species distributed primarily in the Americas. Caterpillars of at least some species, including N. ovina (white flannel moth), possess urticating hairs that deliver painful stings upon contact with human skin. The genus is part of the subfamily Trosiinae within the Megalopygidae family.
Nycteola
Nycteoline moths
Nycteola is a genus of small moths in the family Nolidae, distributed across the Old World and New World. The genus is characterized by rectangular forewings, trifine venation, and distinctive male genitalia. Larvae feed primarily on woody plants in Fagaceae and Salicaceae, with some species considered potential forest pests. Adults of at least some species overwinter and show highly variable wing coloration and pattern.
Olethreutes deprecatoria
Olethreutes deprecatoria is a species of tortricid moth in the subfamily Olethreutinae, first described by Heinrich in 1926. The genus Olethreutes comprises numerous small to medium-sized moths commonly known as tortrix moths or leafroller moths. Species in this genus are typically associated with woody plants, with larvae that feed internally in buds, shoots, or fruits. O. deprecatoria is recorded from Alberta, Manitoba, and Vermont, suggesting a distribution in northern North America.
Packardia geminata
Jeweled Tailed Slug Moth
Packardia geminata, commonly known as the Jeweled Tailed Slug Moth, is a species of slug moth in the family Limacodidae. The species was first described by Packard in 1864 under the basionym Cyrtosia geminata. Like other limacodid moths, the larvae are slug-like caterpillars with reduced prolegs that move by gliding rather than crawling. The family is known for caterpillars that often possess urticating (stinging) spines or setae. Adults are small to medium-sized moths with relatively broad wings. The specific epithet "geminata" (Latin for "twinned" or "doubled") may refer to paired markings or features on the wings or body.
Pandemis lamprosana
Woodgrain Leafroller Moth
Pandemis lamprosana, known as the woodgrain leafroller moth, is a tortricid moth native to northeastern North America. Adults are active in late summer with a single annual generation. The species is recognized by its forewing pattern and moderate size. Larvae are polyphagous leaf feeders on numerous deciduous tree species.
Panthea acronyctoides
Black Zigzag, Tufted Spruce Caterpillar, Black Zigzag Moth
A medium-sized noctuid moth found across northern North America, with two recognized subspecies. Adults fly from May to August and are attracted to light. Larvae feed on coniferous trees, particularly spruces and firs, and are known as the 'tufted spruce caterpillar' due to their distinctive appearance.
Panthea furcilla
Eastern Panthea Moth, Tufted White Pine Caterpillar
Panthea furcilla is a noctuid moth occurring across boreal Canada and the eastern United States. Adults fly from June to August, with a single generation in Canada and multiple generations in the southern United States. The species is notable for its association with coniferous trees, with larvae feeding on pines, spruces, and eastern larch. Two subspecies are recognized: the nominate P. f. furcilla and the southern P. f. australis.
Phyllodesma
Phyllodesma is a Holarctic genus of lappet moths in the family Lasiocampidae, first described by Jacob Hübner in 1820. The genus comprises approximately 17 recognized species distributed across North America, Europe, and Asia. Species in this genus are generally associated with broadleaf host plants, though specific associations vary by species. The genus is characterized by adult moths with cryptic, leaf-like wing patterns that provide camouflage against vegetation.
Pococera maritimalis
Gray-banded Pococera Moth
Pococera maritimalis is a species of pyralid moth in the family Pyralidae, subfamily Epipaschiinae. It was described by McDunnough in 1939. The species is assigned MONA/Hodges number 5603. It belongs to a genus whose larvae are known to feed on tree foliage, particularly as leafrollers.
Protoboarmia porcelaria
Porcelain Gray, Dash-lined Looper
Protoboarmia porcelaria is a Geometrid moth commonly known as the Porcelain Gray or Dash-lined Looper. Adults are medium-sized with brown-gray wings marked by crossed curved lines and a distinctive black blotch. The species occurs throughout North America except the far north, with one generation annually in northern regions and two in southern areas. Larvae feed primarily on conifer foliage and overwinter in their penultimate instar stage.
Pseudothyatira cymatophoroides
Tufted Thyatirine Moth, tufted thyatirid moth
The tufted thyatirine moth is the sole species in the monotypic genus Pseudothyatira, placed in family Drepanidae (hooktip and false owlet moths). It is recognized for its complex bark-mimicking coloration that provides camouflage against tree trunks. The species exhibits a distinctive tufted thorax and intricate wing patterns that have drawn attention from naturalists. It represents a North American endemic with a transcontinental distribution across forested regions.
Psilocorsis
Psilocorsis is a genus of moths in the family Depressariidae, first described by Clemens in 1860. Species within this genus are known as leaf-tiers or leaf-tiers, with larvae that construct shelters by binding together leaves of their host plants. The genus contains approximately 14 recognized species distributed primarily in North America. Larvae are associated with woody plants including oaks (Quercus) and American beech (Fagus grandifolia), and serve as hosts for parasitoid wasp communities.
Raphia frater
brother moth, brother
Raphia frater, commonly known as the brother moth, is a noctuid moth species distributed across forested regions of North America. Adults have a wingspan of 38–44 mm and are active from spring through summer. The species exhibits considerable geographic variation, with multiple described subspecies reflecting this diversity. Larvae feed primarily on aspen and related woody plants.
Rothschildia lebeau
Lebeau's Silk Moth, Forbes Moth
Rothschildia lebeau is a giant silkmoth in the family Saturniidae, distributed from the Lower Rio Grande Valley through eastern Mexico to Brazil. Adults are short-lived and do not feed, relying on fat reserves accumulated during larval development. The species exhibits a life history tradeoff between larval survival and adult body size based on host plant quality, with larger males showing higher mating success.
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Emperor Moths, Wild Silk Moths, Giant Silkmoths
Saturniinae is a subfamily of Saturniidae containing approximately 644 species across 63 genera, including some of the largest Lepidoptera such as the luna moth, atlas moth, and cecropia moth. Adults are medium to very large with wingspans of 7.5–15 cm or more, and are characterized by prominent eyespots on their wings—some with realistic eye-like markings, others with crescent moon or angular shapes, or transparent windows where scales are reduced. Adults lack functional mouthparts and do not feed, living 5–12 days on fat reserves accumulated as larvae. The subfamily is divided into five tribes: Attacini, Bunaeini, Micragonini, Saturniini, and Urotini. Saturniinae is an important source of wild silk and human food in many cultures.
Sciota uvinella
sweetgum leafroller moth
Sciota uvinella is a small snout moth in the family Pyralidae, commonly known as the sweetgum leafroller moth. The species was described by Ragonot in 1887 and occurs in eastern North America. Its common name derives from the larval habit of rolling or folding leaves of its host plant, sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua). The species is notable as a primary prey item for the four-toothed mason wasp, Monobia quadridens, which paralyzes the caterpillars to provision its nest cells.
Sphinx drupiferarum
wild cherry sphinx
Sphinx drupiferarum, the wild cherry sphinx, is a moth in the family Sphingidae. The species was first described by James Edward Smith in 1797. It is found across temperate North America from the United States to southern Canada. The wingspan ranges from 75–115 mm. The larvae feed on several woody plant genera including Prunus, Malus, and Celtis.
Sphinx poecila
poecila sphinx, Northern Apple Sphinx
Sphinx poecila, commonly known as the poecila sphinx or Northern Apple Sphinx, is a moth in the family Sphingidae. It is a medium-sized sphinx moth with a wingspan of 68–95 mm. The species is found in northeastern North America, ranging from Newfoundland and Maine south to Pennsylvania and west to Michigan, northeastern Illinois, and Wisconsin. Larvae feed on a diverse array of host plants including Rosa carolina, Picea glauca, Larix laricina, and various species in the genera Alnus, Malus, Myrica, and Vaccinium.
Xanthotype sospeta
Crocus Geometer
Xanthotype sospeta, commonly known as the crocus geometer, is a pale yellow geometrid moth first described from Jamaica in 1773. It occurs across much of North America from Nova Scotia to British Columbia and south to Colorado and Georgia. The species inhabits deciduous and mixedwood forests. Adults are distinguished by faint brown streaks on the wings and a wingspan of approximately 62 mm. Larvae feed on low-growing shrubs and herbs including willow, dogwood, and viburnum species.
Zeiraphera claypoleana
Buckeye Petiole Borer Moth
Zeiraphera claypoleana, commonly known as the Buckeye Petiole Borer Moth, is a species of tortricid moth described by Riley in 1882. It belongs to the genus Zeiraphera, which includes several economically important forest pests. The species is native to North America and has been documented through iNaturalist observations. Like other members of its genus, it likely has a close association with woody host plants, though specific biological details remain incompletely documented in published literature.