The caterpillar of the Olive-shaded Bird-dropping Moth is slender, green and white with many white and dark green pinstripes. The abdominal spiracles are sometimes surrounded by a black or purple spot. Abdominal segment 8 is humped. The green and white head capsule is diagnostic for this species. The similar Small Bird- dropping Moth has a black and white head with a large white cheek patch. The mature caterpillar grows to less than an inch in length. The adult moth has a wingspan of approximately 5/8 inch. The forewing is white near the base and along the costa with brown and gray markings on the subterminal areas. The hindwing is mostly plain tan shading to white at the base.
The frequency of occurrence is not known in this area, but it is probably common. The individual shown here was photographed in late July. Adults fly from April to September and are attracted to artificial lights.
The larvae feed on all species of Ragweed. This species overwinters in the pupal stage.
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