American Angle Shades

Description:

American Angle Shades moth's are small to medium-sized. The forewings are dark brown with black stripes and a broad, pale subterminal band, wider and paler towards the costa. White,cream color Reniform spot filled with yellow color design inside. The hindwings are whitish at the base, graduating to brown at the margins. The wings of this species are pleated when the moth is resting with the wings folded back.

Habitat:

Native,regularly occurring in multiple nations. Can be found in moist forest habitats and Coastal rainforests. Also found in drier mixed hardwood forests and oak woodlands.

Notes:

This moth was drawn to a standard lamp setup for nightfall moth attraction and capture near the forest. It was a challenge to identify this species. Partly due to the odd appearance of this moth because of its missing hair. It was a slightly faded moth in general condition and coloring. Still it had a unique signature design and Reniform spot that helped my final species discovery. The Mauve and Purplish color that can be seen in more remarkable American Angle Shade moth's was barely a presentation of this moth. In this individual the faded condition caused a Peach hue to be visible in the Purplish area. The Yellow Reniform spot and dark folded wing were the most noticed reliable features. I hope this species has fared well in our moist forest area and I may attract a healthier American Angle Shade while mothing by lamp light in the future. A wonderful design and multiple colors made this moth a fun discovery and observation.