MAPLE ZALE
Zale galbanata
OWLET MOTHS (Erebidae)
Description
The Maple Zale has a wingspan of about 1 to 1.5 inches. The forewing is grayish-brown with a bark-like pattern. The color and boldness of markings varies among individuals. There is often an orange-yellowish tint in the median area. There are 2 bulges in the upper half of the postmedial line. The hindwing is similar in color and pattern, but lacks the orange-yellow tint in median area. The head of the larva is pale green to brown. The body is olive-green with white dorsal and lateral longitudinal stripes. It grows to about 1.5 inches.
Occurrence
The frequency of occurrence in our area is not known. It has been photographed once at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center in late July 2014. Adults fly from April to September and are attracted to lights.
Comments
The larval host plant is Box Elder and possibly other maples. Another common name for this species is Box Elder Zale.
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: Babs Padelford.
|
|
