Backyard and Beyond

Starting out from Brooklyn, an amateur naturalist explores our world.

As John Burroughs said, “The place to observe nature is where you are.”

Some Moths

This pandemic year, I have spent an inordinate amount of time chasing little flutters arising erratically from the grass. By “chasing,” I mean inadvertently flushing a moth and then watching where it lands, usually close by. Above is a Velvetbean Caterpillar Moth (Anticarsia gemmatalis).
The ubiquitous Green Cloverworm Moth (Hypena scabra), posed against some Orange Hobnail Canker on a twig. This moth is quite variable, with much lighter versions.
Another regular sighting, Celery Leaftier Moth (Udea rubigalis).
Forage Looper (Caenurgina erechtea).
One of the Tortrix moths (genus Acleris), found on a column of a mausoleum. My Halloween costume, obviously: cloak of the Royal House of Acleris. Evidently, you can’t tell this genus apart without examining the genitalia. So moving right along:
Ailanthus Webworm Moth (Atteva aurea).
Yellow-collared Scape Moth
(Cisseps fulvicollis). These last two are apt to be seen gathering nectar during the day.

One response to “Some Moths”

  1. Wonderful photos and information on moths!

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