COMMON OAK MOTH
Phoberia atomaris
OWLET MOTH FAMILY (Erebidae)
Description
The Common Oak Moth has a wingspan of 1.25 to 1.75 inches. The forewing is pale to dark gray with yellowish or tan am and pm lines. The median line, reniform spot and shading inside the subterminal line are dark brown. The mature larva grows to 1 5/8 inches. It is variegated pale to dark brown with pale markings that form diamond-shaped spots over the abdominal segments.
Occurrence
The Common Oak Moth is considered to be common in this area. It has been photographed at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center in mid-March. The adults are attracted to artificial lights.
Comments
The larval food plants are oaks. There is one generation a year with mature caterpillars in late spring. The caterpillars are not commonly seen because they feed on the leaves at night.
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is: Babs Padelford.
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