



Catoptria oregonicus
The Western Catoptria is a small, colorful moth that flutters around in grasslands. It has beautiful patterns on its wings that help it blend in with the flowers and grasses.
Habitat: Grasslands
The Western Catoptria is a small moth with shimmering golden-brown forewings streaked by metallic silver or white lines and a distinctive dark dash near the wing tip. Its hindwings are a plain, light brownish-gray. This intricate pattern allows it to blend seamlessly into dry grasses and sun-dappled foliage.




Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Baby Western Catoptria moths, called larvae, munch on grass roots underground.
Its scientific name, 'oregonicus,' means 'from Oregon,' where it was first discovered!
This moth belongs to a family called 'grass-veneers' because of how well they hide in grassy areas.
Though a moth, it flies mostly in bright sunshine, often darting quickly between plants!
Western Catoptria has intricately patterned wings that helps them vanish among dry grasses, making it super hard for predators to spot.
Western Catoptria can use its long proboscis to sip nectar from tiny flowers, fueling its flight and helping plants pollinate.
Western Catoptria is active during the day because it has adapted to feed and fly when the sun is out, unlike most moths.
Adults enjoy flower nectar, while their larvae are busy eating the roots and stems of grasses.
Age differences: Larvae consume grass roots and stems, while adults feed exclusively on flower nectar.

Poa pratensis
Larvae feed on the roots and stems.
Solidago canadensis
Adults visit flowers for nectar.

Cyanocitta stelleri
Birds may prey on adult moths.
Araniella displicata
Spiders may catch moths in webs.
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Camouflaged describes organisms that possess coloring or patterns that allow them to blend into their environment.
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Grassland habitats are terrestrial biomes dominated by grasses and herbaceous plants, supporting a variety of grazing animals.
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
No aliases listed yet.
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Moths are gentle creatures, but it's best to watch them from a distance.
20-28 mm
10-14 mm
10-21 days
5 km/h
Adults enjoy flower nectar, while their larvae are busy eating the roots and stems of grasses.
Grasslands
Foraging
6
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