Though it is not in the family, Decorated Owlet moths have big, rounded hindwings, giving them a shape more similar to Geometer moths than their own kind. The forewings are only slightly larger than the hindwings, giving it a compact shape. The colors on the top of the wings are different from the underside. On top, dark brown middle bands have gray or purple patches under them. A black dot sits near the body on each upper hindwing. Some individuals have bolder marbling and more gray. Others are dark brown with an orange-brown border by the fringe. The underside of the wings is pale and gray with golden brown lines that cross it. Regardless of hue and contrast, all individual Decorated Owlets live up to their common name.
Caterpillars of this moth feed on the leaves of blueberry plants that are grown in sandy soil. It is plump and green with a green head that has a pair of black lines by the eyes. This moth is active in summer.
General Characteristics Capability, Shape, Texture/Pattern, Benefits, Dangers
Note: An insect's reach is not limited by lines drawn on a map and therefore species may appear in areas, regions and/or states beyond those listed above as they are driven by environmental factors (such as climate change), available food supplies and mating patterns.
Territorial Map U.S., Canada, and Mexico
Alaska
Hawaii
Prince Edward Is.
Butterfly and Moth Anatomy
1
Antennae: Butterflies and Moths have a pair of antennae on the head used for sensing.
2
Head: The head is home to the insect's eyes, antennae, and proboscis.
3
Thorax: Home to the three pairs of legs as well as vital internal organs.
4
Abdomen: Contains vital internal organs such as the heart(s) and reproduction facilities.
5
Forewing: The upper, forward wing pair used for flying.
6
Hindwing: The lower, rearward wing pair used for flying.
NOTE: Butterflies and Moths are part of the Lepidopteran order as they share many similarities.
Colors: brown; purple; yellow; tan
