SMALL BIRD DROPPING MOTH
Tarachidia erastrioides
OWLET MOTH FAMILY (Noctuidae)
Description
This is a very small moth, with a wingspan under one inch. But at rest, it is less than 1/2 inch long. As the common name implies, it looks like bird dropping - a defense mechanism shared by quite a few other moths, and caterpillars as well.
Occurrence
The abundance of this tiny moth is unknown for our two nature centers. But they are probably common, since its larvae feed on two species of Ragweed (Ambrosia ssp.) of which we have plenty of. Adults are seen from May through September, but mostly at night - they are attracted to light.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Nature Association who strive to provide the most accurate information available. Contributors of the images retain their copyrights. The point of contact for this page
is: Roland Barth.
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