The Common Oak Moth has a wingspan of 1.25 to 1.75 inches. The forewing is pale to dark gray with yellowish or tan am and pm lines. The median line, reniform spot and shading inside the subterminal line are dark brown. The mature larva grows to 1 5/8 inches. It is variegated pale to dark brown with pale markings that form diamond-shaped spots over the abdominal segments.
The Common Oak Moth is considered to be common in this area. It has been photographed at Fontenelle Forest Nature Center in mid-March. The adults are attracted to artificial lights.
The larval food plants are oaks. There is one generation a year with mature caterpillars in late spring. The caterpillars are not commonly seen because they feed on the leaves at night.
Disclaimer: The content of NatureSearch is provided by dedicated volunteer Naturalists of Fontenelle Forest 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.