When it comes to spotting wildlife in Maryland, moths may not be the first thing that comes to mind.
However, Maryland has many moths, from small and colorful species to large and drab ones.
In this blog post, we’ll look at the different types of moths you might find in Maryland.
From the beautiful Cecropia Moth to the fuzzy White-marked Tussock Moth, these creatures play an important role in the ecosystem and are worth knowing.
If you live in or are visiting Maryland, you may be surprised to learn that over 250 species of moths live in the state.
Moths are a fascinating part of Maryland’s ecosystem, fluttering around in many different habitats.
From the small and delicate to the large and brightly colored, these species vary widely in size, shape, and color.
As said earlier, we’ll explore some of the different types of moths in Maryland and discuss the characteristics that set them apart.
Shall we?
1. Bidens Borer Moth
The Bidens Borer Moth (Epiblema otiosana) is one of the most common types of moths in Maryland.
This species is known for its ability to produce a long, narrow tube from its bodies, known as a ‘borer.’
This borer allows the moth to dig into softwoods and create tunnels for food and shelter.
The moths are generally gray, with a yellow or orange-brown line running down the middle of their body.
They can be seen in wooded areas during the summer months when they are most active.
These moths are not considered a serious threat to trees or plants and are more of a nuisance due to their borer activity.
Although they can be destructive if left unchecked, they will not cause serious damage to the trees they inhabit.
Bidens Borer Moths in Maryland can be beneficial as they help control pests by consuming small insects and their larvae.
2. Black Bit Moth
The black bit moth (Celiptera frustulum) is a species of moth native to Maryland and can be found in deciduous forests and woodlands throughout the region.
The adult moths are black with yellow spots on their wings and have a wingspan of up to 1.5 inches.
These moths in Maryland are active during the day and can often be seen flying around in search of food.
Moreso, they feed on flowers and other plant material, and their larvae feed on the leaves of various trees and shrubs.
The black bitmoth is an important part of the ecosystem in Maryland, helping to pollinate plants and provide food for other wildlife.
These moths are typically active from May to September, with most activity occurring during summer.
It is important to remember that although they may seem harmless, these moths can become a nuisance if found inside houses or buildings as they may become attracted to lights.
If you have an infestation of black-bit moths, it is best to contact a professional exterminator to get rid of them.
3. Black-Dotted Ruddy Moth
The Black-dotted Ruddy Moth (Ilexia intractata) is a moth species found in Maryland.
It belongs to the family Erebidae and is one of the more common species of moths in the area.
These moths have a wingspan of around 1-1.5 inches, and they are typically light brown or yellowish.
The most distinguishing feature of these moths is the large black spot near the center of their wings.
They also have white and black markings on the outer margins of their wings, giving them a striking appearance.
These moths usually feed on flowers, although they can sometimes be found on fruits or tree bark.
They are types of moths in Maryland that are active during the day and can often be spotted on the wing when the sun is out.
When disturbed, these moths fly away in a zig-zag pattern, making them quite difficult to catch.
They typically lay their eggs on plant leaves, and the larvae feed on them before pupating and emerging as adults.
4. Black-Edged Dichomeris Moth
The Black-edged Dichomeris Moth (Dichomeris heirguronis) is a moth native to Maryland.
It is easily recognized by its large, dark wings and bright yellow abdominal region.
The larvae of this moth feed on the leaves of various shrubs, including oaks and cherries.
This species is particularly attracted to areas with high moisture content, making it a common sight in humid regions of the state.
The moths also frequent parks, forests, and other natural habitats.
The Black-edged Dichomeris Moth typically emerges during the summer, when its wingspan can reach up to three inches.
During this time, the moths are often hovering around lights and plants or resting on foliage.
These particular types of moths in Maryland typically remain active until fall, when their activity declines.
The adults will lay their eggs during this time, and the larvae will go through metamorphosis into adults before winter arrives.
5. Bristly Cutworm Moth
The Bristly Cutworm Moth (Lacinipolia renigera) is a moth species found in the mid-Atlantic states of Maryland, Delaware, and Virginia.
This species of moth has a light gray to dark gray color, with yellowish-brown wing margins and dark gray spots on the front and back wings.
They have a wingspan of about one inch and feed on low-growing vegetation such as weeds and grasses.
These types of moths in Maryland are active during the day, although they may be found resting at night.
The adult Bristly Cutworm Moth can often be seen in fields and gardens, especially during warmer months.
They can also be found in areas with disturbed soil and leaf litter.
This moth species does not cause any significant damage to crops; however, it may act as a minor pest in some areas.
Because of their small size, humans rarely notice them, making them difficult to monitor or control.
6. Brown Panopoda Moth
The Brown Panopoda Moth (Panopoda carneicosta) is a species of moth that can be found in Maryland.
It has a distinctive brown color with a white or grayish-white line running down the middle of its wings. Its wingspan is around 2.2 cm, and its body length ranges from 8 to 14 mm.
The adults are nocturnal, flying mainly in the evening, although they have been known to fly during the day.
This moth species is commonly found in forested areas near the edges and clearings, with plenty of vegetation to feed on.
This species’ larvae feed on various plants, including grasses, herbs, shrubs, and trees. They also feed on fruits and vegetables when available.
The caterpillar is black or dark gray and measures 1.5 cm to 4 cm long when fully grown.
The pupa is brown and about 1 cm long, and the adult moths emerge from the cocoon after about two weeks.
The Brown Panopoda Moth is one of the types of moths in Maryland and is an important pollinator for many plants and an important source of food for other wildlife.
7. Celery Leaftier Moth
The Celery Leaftier Moth (Udea rubigalis) is a common moth species found in Maryland.
This small moth has a wingspan of just over one inch and a body length of approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
Its mottled gray, yellow, and brown coloring gives it a distinct look amongst other moths in Maryland.
Its head, thorax, and abdomen are all covered with silvery hairs.
This species prefers moist habitats, usually found in fields, meadows, and woodlands near bodies of water.
The Celery Leaftier Moth is active daily, flitting among flowers and grasses for food.
They feed mainly on the nectar of a variety of flowering plants.
The caterpillars of this moth have been known to feed on lettuce, parsley, celery, and other vegetables.
The adults lay their eggs on the leaves of host plants, usually found in clusters of up to 100.
The caterpillars are small and cream-colored, with dark spots near the head.
As they grow, they become dark green and more distinctively patterned with black, white, and yellow stripes.
The caterpillar pupates, and adults emerge within two weeks. The Celery Leaftier Moth has two generations each year, with adults appearing from April through October.
Control methods for this species typically involve the removal of host plants from areas that humans frequently visit.
8. Cherry Scallop Shell Moth
The Cherry Scallop Shell Moth (Rheumaptera prunivorata) is a species of moth native to Maryland, as well as other states in the eastern United States.
It is identified by its golden-brown coloration and a pattern of black wing markings.
The body of this moth on our list of the types of moths in Maryland is also quite small, measuring only about one inch in length.
In addition to its distinctive coloration, this species has a unique wing shape that resembles a scallop shell.
These moths are active during the summer and can be seen hovering over flowers and other areas with abundant vegetation.
They can also be found in wooded areas, as they are attracted to moisture and decaying wood.
The larvae of this species feed on various plant materials and are often seen eating the leaves and stems of cherry trees.
Overall, the Cherry Scallop Shell Moth is a common sight in Maryland and is a beautiful addition to any backyard or garden.
9. Cinnabar Moth
The Cinnabar Moth (Tyria jacobaeae) is one of the most recognizable types of moths in Maryland.
This medium-sized moth is easily identified by its black and yellow wings covered in small red spots.
The larvae of the Cinnabar Moth can be found feeding on various plants, including ragwort and burdock.
These bright red or orange caterpillars may have black markings or spines.
During the spring, these moths can be seen flying around gardens and fields for nectar-rich flowers.
Adult Cinnabar Moths typically emerge in the late summer and lay their eggs on the undersides of leaves or stems.
When the caterpillars hatch, they feed on the surrounding plant matter until they reach their full size.
After they form their cocoon, they emerge as adults in late spring or early summer to start the cycle all over again.
The Cinnabar Moth is an important part of Maryland’s ecosystem, as it helps to pollinate many of the state’s flowering plants.
10. Clover Looper Moth
The Clover Looper Moth (Caenurgina crassiuscula) is a moth found in Maryland and many other parts of North America.
This species of moth has a wingspan that can reach up to 2 inches and a distinctive yellowish-green body with white bands on the wings.
The Clover Looper Moth is also one of the many moths in Maryland. It is usually found in fields or gardens and is a pest of clover and other legumes.
These moths lay their eggs near the roots of clover plants, and the larvae can cause damage to the plant.
The Clover Looper Moth is an important pollinator for several plants, but it is also considered a pest due to its destructive feeding habits.
This moth can be controlled by natural predators such as birds and parasitic wasps.
It can also be kept in check by removing any infested plants and keeping an eye out for eggs or larvae.
11. Common Tan Wave Moth
The Common Tan Wave Moth (Pleuroprucha insulsaria) is a type of moth that can be found in Maryland.
It is easily identifiable by its tan color and waved pattern on the wings.
The wingspan is typically 1.5 to 2 inches long, and the moths are active at night, often seen flying around artificial lights.
These types of moths are very common throughout Maryland, particularly during the late spring and summer months.
They are usually found in moist habitats, such as riverbanks and wet meadows, but can also be seen in parks and gardens.
This moth’s larvae feed on various low-growing plants, including clover and grasses, but have been known to feed on vegetable crops in garden areas.
12. Dart Moth
The Dart Moth (Agnorisma bolii) is a medium-sized moth throughout Maryland.
It has a wingspan of around one and a half inches and is generally yellowish-brown with a pale white crescent marking on its wings.
The body is typically grey or black, and the moth is active during the day and night.
The Dart Moth is quite common throughout Maryland, often seen hovering near flowers and vegetation, where it can feed on nectar.
It is also an important pollinator species, helping to spread pollen and promote the growth of plants.
They are particularly active during the summer months when their larvae feed on the leaves of many plants.
13. Discolored Renia Moth
The Discolored Renia Moth (Renia discoloralis) is a moth species found in Maryland and other regions of North America.
It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of up to 1.5 inches.
Its upper wings are pale yellow but have dark spots and stripes, while its lower wings are light gray with darker spots and lines.
The Discolored Renia Moth feeds on the foliage of various plants, including members of the daisy family.
These types of moths in Maryland are most active during the night when they fly around searching for food and mates.
The Discolored Renia Moth is relatively common in Maryland, though it can be difficult to spot due to its small size and nocturnal habits.
They are usually found near flowering plants, such as daisies, feeding on the leaves and flowers.
They are also attracted to outdoor lights, making them a good choice for observing moths in their natural habitat.
14. Divided Olethreutes Moth
The Divided Olethreutes Moth (Olethreutes bipartitana) is a moth species found in Maryland and other parts of the eastern United States.
This small to medium-sized moth is known for its distinctively divided wings, which may be yellow, orange, or brown, depending on the season.
The Divided Olethreutes Moth can be identified by its somewhat flattened body and distinctive divided wings, set against a darker background.
This moth is found in woodlands and grasslands, usually near streams and ponds.
They are likewise on this list of the different types of moths in Maryland, and they feed primarily on plant nectar but may also consume small insects.
The Divided Olethreutes Moth is active during the late summer and fall months and can be seen fluttering around gardens and yards.
They can be found resting on vegetation or rocks when not in flight.
This moth species is relatively common throughout Maryland and is an important part of the local ecosystem, providing food for many birds and bats.
15. Abbreviated Button Slug Moth
The Abbreviated Button Slug Moth (Tortricidia flexuosa) is a common moth throughout Maryland and North America.
These moths are dark gray or brown and have a wingspan of up to 1.5 inches.
They are commonly found near areas with foliage and vegetation, as they feed on plant leaves and fruit.
The Abbreviated Button Slug Moth is active during the warmer months, from May through September.
These moths are an important species for agricultural areas, as their larvae can be beneficial in controlling pest populations that can damage crops.
16. Abbott’s Sphinx Moth
The Abbott’s Sphinx Moth (Sphecodina abbottii) is a species of moth found throughout the Mid-Atlantic and eastern United States, including Maryland.
It has long wings with stripes of gray, white, and yellow. Its forewings have a bright yellow band in the middle, and its hindwings have a patch of yellow at the base.
The moth’s antennae are prominent, and its body is dark gray with a distinctive black line along its side.
The Abbott’s Sphinx Moth typically flies from July through August and prefers areas with dense vegetation.
It lays its eggs on various plants, such as corn and tomatoes. They are mainly nocturnal and can often be seen around porch lights at night.
As it is one of the common types of moths in Maryland, you may find one in your yard or garden this summer!
17. Achemon Sphinx Moth
The Achemon Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha achemon) is an easily recognizable moth species in the Sphingidae family.
It can be found throughout most of the United States and Canada, including Maryland. The adults are relatively large, with a wingspan of 2 to 3.2 inches.
This species has gray-brown mottled forewings with a darker brown median area and pale yellow-orange hindwings.
The most identifying characteristic of this moth is its small white orb-shaped markings on each forewing.
They are types of moths in Maryland that are active day and night, flying rapidly while feeding on flower nectar.
The caterpillars of the Achemon Sphinx Moth feed on trees and shrubs, such as Maple, Apple, Walnut, Willow, Elm, Birch, Oak, and Cottonwood.
The larvae are green or brown with yellow stripes and a black head and tail. They grow to about 2.5 inches in length before pupating.
The pupa is light tan or yellowish brown with four pairs of black bristles and a distinct black line along the length of the body.
As adults, the moths typically emerge from their pupa between June and August and live for up to two weeks before dying.
18. Adjutant Wainscot Moth
The Adjutant Wainscot Moth (Leucania adjuta) is a medium-sized moth found in Maryland and across North America.
It has a wingspan of up to 2 inches, yellowish-brown wings, and two distinctive light bands.
The caterpillar stage of this moth feeds on many types of grass, which makes them a major agricultural pest.
The adults are nocturnal and are attracted to lights, where they can be seen fluttering around during the night.
The Adjutant Wainscot Moth is not considered an endangered species, but monitoring their population for any signs of decline is important.
Equally important to note, this is one of the most interesting types of moths in Maryland!
This species is also known for its migratory habits and can sometimes travel as far as southern Canada or even as far south as Florida in search of new food sources.
While this moth is not considered a serious pest, it is best to monitor their activity and take appropriate measures if needed to protect crops.
19. Angulose Prominent Moth
The Angulose Prominent Moth (Peridea angulosa) is found in Maryland and other parts of the eastern United States.
It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of about 1.5 inches. The forewings are brownish gray with light yellow patches and have a distinctive angulate shape.
The hindwings are pale yellow with a thin, dark border at the edge.
This moth species on our list of the types of moths in Maryland is most active during the spring and summer months.
Adults are nocturnal, resting during the day and emerging to feed on nectar from flowers at night.
During the day, they can be found resting on tree trunks or other vertical surfaces or hanging upside down in shrubs and grasses.
20. American Dagger Moth
The American Dagger Moth (Acronicta americana) is a type of moth commonly found in Maryland.
This small, brown, and grey moth can be seen in wooded areas, gardens, and open fields.
The wingspan can reach up to 50 mm, and the body length is usually around 30 mm.
The American Dagger Moth also has a unique white mark on its underside, which resembles an American flag.
These types of moths in Maryland are active mainly at night but can also be seen during the day.
They feed mainly on nectar from flowers but are also known to eat leaves and fruits.
In addition to being found in Maryland, the American Dagger Moth can also be found in other parts of the United States and Canada.
They are an important part of the ecosystem, as their larvae feed on trees, grasses, and weeds.
21. American Bird’s-Wing Moth
This striking moth (Dypterygia rozmani) is a medium-sized, gray-brown moth with orange or white patches along its wings.
This species is found throughout the United States, including Maryland. It can be found in gardens, woodland edges, and forests.
The American Bird’s-Wing Moth is not left out of this list of the different types of moths in Maryland, and it feeds on the nectar of flowers during the day.
During the night, it hides away in foliage or tree bark crevices. These moths have a wingspan of 1 to 2 inches and have a distinctive light yellow fringe along the edge of their wings.
The larvae of this species feed on flowers, fruits, and leaves, making them an important pollinator for many plants.
This moth is a great addition to any garden or outdoor area, as it helps to pollinate native plants while also providing a beautiful sight to behold.
They are an important part of Maryland’s biodiversity and should be protected.
To create a habitat that encourages these moths to thrive, gardeners should plant native flowers and trees, avoiding the use of pesticides that can kill them.
If you are lucky enough to spot one of these amazing types of moths in Maryland, take the time to appreciate their beauty and value as part of the local ecosystem.
22. Ambiguous Moth
The Ambiguous Moth (Lascoria ambigualis) is a moth native to the United States, mainly in the East.
This species can be found in Maryland, primarily in woodlands and open fields.
The Ambiguous Moth has a mottled gray-brown pattern on its wings and a wingspan of 1 – 1.5 inches.
It is also recognized by its yellow hindwings and a yellow crescent-shaped line near its front wing tips.
The larvae of this species feed on various herbaceous plants. This moth is nocturnal and usually flies at night.
It is usually seen in May and June and is attracted to lights.
The best way to observe them is to place sheets on the ground near the lights and then wait for them to come out and rest.
Ambiguous moths are also types of moths in Maryland that are harmless and a great addition to any backyard garden or landscape.
23. Afflicted Dagger Moth
The Afflicted Dagger Moth (Acronticta afflicta) is a moth species found in Maryland and other parts of the eastern United States.
It is a relatively small moth with a wingspan of around 1.5 inches. The moth has a distinctive brown and yellow coloration, with yellow spots on its forewings.
Its larvae are green and brown and are generally found feeding on grasses and sedges.
The Afflicted Dagger Moth, one of the many moths in Maryland, is active at night and can be attracted to light sources.
The Afflicted Dagger Moth is an important part of Maryland’s moth fauna and is important for the ecosystem due to its role as a pollinator and a food source for other creatures.
Additionally, it is considered an indicator species for climate change, as its populations are sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity.
As such, conservation efforts should ensure that these moths remain abundant in the state.
24. Ailanthus Webworm Moth
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth (Atteva aurea) is a moth species in Maryland.
They have a yellowish-brown coloration and a wingspan of around two inches.
Their body is covered in brown, silky hairs. They get their name from the webbing they produce on the leaves of Ailanthus trees.
This species of moth typically feeds on pollen and nectar from flowers. They are active during the summer months, usually from May to August.
These moths in Maryland can often be found near urban areas, as they feed off of the plants found in cities and towns.
It’s important to note that they are not considered pests but beneficial species as they help pollinate flowers and plants in the area.
Consider planting some Ailanthus trees and other flowering plants to attract this moth species to your garden.
25. Angus’ Datana Moth
The Angus’ Datana Moth (Datana angusii) is a species of moth that can be found in Maryland.
It belongs to the Notodontidae family, also known as the Yellow-necked Caterpillar Moth.
Its wingspan ranges from 2.2 to 2.7 centimeters, and its coloration consists of brown, yellow, and orange markings on the forewings, with darker markings along the veins.
The hindwings of these particular types of moths in Maryland are grayish-brown with fringes along the margins.
It feeds on various deciduous trees, including oaks, poplars, and maples.
The Angus’ Datana Moth is active during the day and is most often seen in open areas like meadows and fields.
They typically emerge mid-May but can be seen until late June or early July.
Their eggs are laid in clusters on the underside of leaves, and the larvae feed on their host plants until they reach maturity and pupate.
This moth species is uncommon in Maryland but can still be found if one knows where to look.
26. Arcigera Flower Moth
The Arcigera Flower Moth (Schinia arcigera) is a moth native to Maryland.
This small moth is identified by its large wingspan, which measures up to an inch and boasts an intricate, cream-colored pattern on its wings.
Its white or yellowish-green body is marked with a black stripe on the hindwings.
The Arcigera Flower Moth usually flutters in gardens and fields from June to August.
This moth species feeds on nectar but has also been known to eat the sap of certain tree species.
Females lay their eggs in clusters on host plants such as juniper and boxwood.
The caterpillars of this species are green with black stripes and have been found feeding on the leaves of various trees, shrubs, and herbaceous plants.
When they become adults, the moths can be found in their native Maryland during the warm months of summer.
27. Bagworm Moth
Bagworms (Various spp.) are a family of types of moths in Maryland.
They get their name from the bag-like cocoon the larvae form when they pupate.
The caterpillars feed on trees and shrubs, including evergreens, hardwoods, and many garden plants.
Damage caused by these insects can range from light defoliation to severe damage, depending on the species and severity of infestation.
The adult moths do not feed and will emerge in late summer or fall. Different species of bagworm moths can be identified by their cocoons.
Some of these types of moths in Maryland are small and round, while others are larger and have an oval shape.
Their color can vary from a light tan to a dark brown or black. The cocoon can sometimes be covered in a bristly hair-like substance.
In Maryland, several species of bagworms are common, including the Thyridopteryx ephemeraeformis, the Metisa plana, and the Pseudaletia unipuncta.
28. Banded Tiger Moth
The Banded Tiger Moth (Apantesis vittata) is a species of moth that is native to Maryland.
It has a wingspan of 1.5-2.5 inches and is primarily black, yellow, and white.
This colorful moth can often fly around during the warmer months in Maryland.
The moths lay their eggs on tree bark, and the larvae feed on the bark and foliage of plants.
The Banded Tiger Moth is common in Maryland, especially in suburban and urban areas.
They are often attracted to lights and can sometimes cluster around porch lights at night.
They are usually harmless, though they have been known to feed on certain plants, such as tomatoes and roses.
These moths in Maryland can live up to a month, and the caterpillars can be found throughout the summer.
29. Banded Tussock Moth
The Banded Tussock Moth (Halysidota tessellaris) is a moth species found in Maryland.
This species has a wingspan of about 1-1/2 inches and a body length of about 3/4 inches.
They are usually light yellowish-brown, with two orange bands across the forewing.
They typically fly from late May through mid-July. The larvae feed on trees such as oak, maple, and birch leaves.
These moths in Maryland are often seen flying around lights at night, especially in wooded areas.
They are attracted to bright lights, which they use to orient themselves when they become disoriented while flying.
If you find one of these moths, it is important not to handle them as their hairs can irritate the skin.
30. Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth
The Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth (Pyrrharctia isabella) is also one of the most common types of moths in Maryland.
It has a rust-colored body with white and black bands along its back.
It is usually seen during the spring and summer when it actively searches for food sources, such as nectar.
This type of moth is not a pest but a beneficial insect as it helps pollinate flowers in the area.
The Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth, one of the different types of moths in Maryland, also has a unique life cycle.
When they are larvae, they feed on foliage until they reach adulthood. Then, they enter the pupa stage before emerging as moths.
During this time, they can travel up to 1,000 miles searching for a mate before laying their eggs.
As adults, these moths are active during the night and will rest during the day.
31. Barberry Geometer Moth
Finally, the Barberry Geometer Moth (Coryphista meadii) is last on this list of various types of moths in Maryland.
This species is small and has a wingspan of about 12 millimeters, with the wings being brownish-gray in color and marked with a white bar and light brown bars.
These moths are quite active during the day and can be found resting on trees or bushes.
In addition to that, they feed on the nectar of flowers, particularly those of the barberry family.
These moths are known to inhabit a variety of habitats, including woodlands, shrubland, and gardens.
The caterpillar of the Barberry Geometer Moth is white or pale yellow and is covered in short hair.
The caterpillars feed on the leaves of trees and shrubs. They also spin a silk cocoon around their body as protection as they feed.
The pupal stage lasts for two to three weeks before adult moths emerge and fly off to find mates.
Barberry Geometer Moths can be found from May through August in Maryland.
