Lithophane dilatocula
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Lithophane dilatocula
Lithophane dilatocula
The Lithophane dilatocula is a special moth that can blend in with its surroundings. It has beautiful patterns on its wings that help it hide from predators during the day.
Habitat: Forests
Appearance
The Lithophane dilatocula has mottled grey-brown forewings with cryptic patterns, closely resembling tree bark, making it difficult to spot. Its hindwings are a paler grey. This moth's elongated, narrow forewings distinguish it from similar species.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyNoctuidaeGenusLithophane
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Adult Lithophane dilatocula moths can live for many months, even through the winter!
Before they are moths, these insects munch on tree leaves as caterpillars!
Its scientific name, 'dilatocula,' means 'wide eye,' referring to a subtle wing marking.
This moth sips flower nectar using a long, straw-like tongue called a proboscis!
Special abilities
Ability
Camouflage Cloak
Lithophane dilatocula has intricate wing patterns that help them blend perfectly with tree bark, making them almost invisible to predators.
Ability
Winter Sleeper
Lithophane dilatocula can survive freezing winters as an adult moth by entering a dormant state, emerging when spring arrives.
Ability
Nectar Sipper
Lithophane dilatocula has a long proboscis to reach deep nectar in flowers, providing them with essential energy for flight.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 35-45 mm
- Size
- 15-22 mm
- Lifespan
- 180-270 days
- Flight Speed
- 15 km/h
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Adult moths drink flower nectar; caterpillars munch on tree leaves.
Age differences: As caterpillars, they eat tree leaves; as adult moths, they drink nectar.
Primary Foods
- flower nectar
- oak leaves
- maple leaves
- birch leaves
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
eaten by
Blue Jay
Cyanocitta cristata
A common bird predator.
eats
Little Brown Bat
Myotis lucifugus
Hunts adult moths at night.
depends on
Red Oak
Quercus rubra
Larvae feed on its leaves.
depends on
Sugar Maple
Acer saccharum
Larvae also eat its leaves.
Traits
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Camouflaged
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Forest
Forest habitats are terrestrial environments dominated by dense tree cover, supporting a high diversity of plant and animal life.
Nocturnal
Nocturnal animals are primarily active during the nighttime hours, typically resting or sleeping during the day.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
Pinion Moth
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Moths are usually harmless, but it's best to observe them without touching.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lithophane dilatocula's wingspan?
35-45 mm
How big is Lithophane dilatocula?
15-22 mm
How long does Lithophane dilatocula live?
180-270 days
How fast can Lithophane dilatocula fly?
15 km/h
What does Lithophane dilatocula eat?
Adult moths drink flower nectar; caterpillars munch on tree leaves.
Where is Lithophane dilatocula usually found?
Forests
How does Lithophane dilatocula hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Lithophane dilatocula have?
6
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