New Jersey is home to many moths, ranging from small and inconspicuous to large and showy.
These types of moths in New Jersey can be found in forests, gardens, and even urban areas.
While most of these moths are harmless, some can destroy crops and vegetation.
Moths may not be as flashy or exciting as butterflies, but they are still an important part of the ecosystem.
They come in various shapes and sizes and can be found across New Jersey.
If you want to learn more about moths, this blog post will discuss the different types of moths in New Jersey.
As said above, in this post, we’ll discuss the types of moths in New Jersey that you’re likely to find.
From the beautiful Cecropia Moth to the ever-present Eastern Tent Caterpillar, these moths all have something unique to offer.
Read on to learn more about the amazing types of moths in New Jersey!
1. Ailanthus Webworm Moth
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth (Atteva aurea) is an interesting and unique type of moth that can be found in New Jersey.
This moth is most commonly found in the northeastern United States, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, and Massachusetts.
This moth has a wingspan of roughly 1 inch and a light yellow to white body. It also has two large black spots on each of its wings.
The moth’s head and thorax are covered in white scales and have black antennae.
In the wild, the Ailanthus Webworm Moth feeds on the leaves and flowers of various plants, including Ailanthus altissima (the tree of heaven), elms, maples, and roses.
Its larvae can be found from May to October when they feed on the foliage of various trees.
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth is considered an agricultural pest in some areas, as its larvae have been known to cause considerable damage to crops.
However, this moth species, the first on this list of the types of moths in New Jersey, also serves an important role in pollination and provides a food source for other animals.
2. Achemon Sphinx Moth
The Achemon Sphinx Moth (Eumorpha achemon) is a large moth found in New Jersey.
This moth is easily identified by its large size and distinctive, pale yellow wings with dark brown stripes.
The moths typically measure 3-4 inches long, with a wingspan of up to five inches. They are often found in open fields, meadows, gardens, and parks at night.
The larvae of the Achemon Sphinx Moth feed on various species of plants and shrubs, such as grapevines, roses, wild cherry, and Virginia creeper.
After reaching adulthood, the moths feed on the nectar of flowers.
As with many moths in New Jersey, they rely on camouflage to avoid predators.
This species is an important pollinator and plays an important role in the New Jersey ecosystem.
Their unique mating ritual involves fluttering around each other in mid-air.
If you’re lucky enough to witness it, it’s quite a sight! Overall, the Achemon Sphinx Moth is a fascinating species that plays an important role in the environment and should be cherished and protected.
3. American Ermine Moth
The American Ermine Moth (Yponomeuta multipunctella) is a small moth found in many parts of North America, including New Jersey.
Its wingspan measures around 1.1 to 1.3 inches and has a unique white and black pattern that makes it stand out from the crowd.
Uniquely important, it is one of the many types of moths in New Jersey that you should know.
The American Ermine Moth is primarily seen during summer and is known for its powerful scent.
This species’ larvae feed on various trees, including Oak, Elm, Maple, Cherry, Apple, and Poplar.
As the adult moths feed on flower nectar, they are considered beneficial for pollination and important links in the food chain.
4. Arcigera Flower Moth
The Arcigera Flower Moth (Schinia arcigera) is a species of moth that can be found in New Jersey.
It is one of the more unusual types of moths in New Jersey due to its unique appearance.
The wings of this moth have bright orange-red bands which contrast with the black wings and body.
They are types of moths in New Jersey that also have light blue eyespots near their head and thorax.
These moths are typically seen flying around gardens and fields, feeding on various flowers.
These moths are quite rare, but they can be found in certain areas of New Jersey.
Unfortunately, their populations may be threatened by habitat loss and other environmental factors.
The Arcigera Flower Moth is listed as an endangered species by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, so it’s important to be aware of these moths and take steps to protect them.
With careful monitoring, we can ensure that these moths continue to be a part of New Jersey’s natural ecosystem.
5. Banded Woolly Bear Caterpillar Moth
This species of moth (Pyrrharctia isabella) is native to New Jersey and can be found in various habitats throughout the state.
The Banded Woollybear Caterpillar Moth is a distinctive species with black and orange bands on its body and yellow-orange legs.
It feeds on various plants and is active mostly at night. It has a wingspan of between 2 and 3 inches, making it one of the larger types of moths in New Jersey.
These moths are generally not considered a pest species, although they can cause damage to crops or trees if their population becomes too large.
If you find these moths in your garden or yard, it’s best to take preventive measures to limit their population by removing any infested plants and using insecticides if necessary.
Natural methods can also control them, such as introducing predators like wasps or spiders that feed on them.
6. Barberry Geometer Moth
The Barberry Geometer Moth (Coryphista meadii) is a moth native to New Jersey.
The moths have grayish-brown wings with white and yellow stripes running along the edges, and their bodies are light gray.
These moths prefer wooded areas and feed on the foliage of oaks and other deciduous trees.
During the day, they can be seen resting on tree trunks and branches or fluttering about among the leaves. At night, they take to the air for food sources and mates.
When threatened, the Barberry Geometer Moth releases a strong, pungent odor from its body.
This odorous chemical helps to ward off predators and protect the moth from harm.
The Barberry Geometer Moth is an important pollinator for many species of wildflowers, making them a vital part of the local ecosystem.
If you ever find one of these beautiful types of moths in New Jersey, it would be a good idea to leave it undisturbed so that it can continue to do its work!
7. Black-Waved Flannel Moth
The Black-waved Flannel Moth (Megalopyge crispata) is one of the different types of moths in New Jersey that you’ll find.
It is also known as the White Flannel Moth and is easily recognizable due to its distinctive white flannel-like wings and black stripes.
This moth’s caterpillars feed on various plants, including willow, apple, pear, cherry, and oak trees. They can also be found on conifers like fir and pine trees.
In its adult form, the Black-waved Flannel Moth has a 1.25-1.75-inch wingspan and is a very fast flier.
The Black-waved Flannel Moth is native to North America and found throughout much of the Eastern United States, including New Jersey.
The caterpillars are most active in the spring and early summer when they feed on various leaves and flowers.
In the late summer and fall, the caterpillars make cocoons and emerge as adult moths in the spring.
If you’re looking for a unique type of moth to add to your collection, the Black-waved Flannel Moth is a great choice.
8. Bluish Spring Moth
The Bluish Spring Moth (Lomographa semiclarata) is a moth found in New Jersey.
It belongs to the family Geometridae and can be found in the northern parts of the state.
It has a wingspan of about 1.5 inches and is primarily gray or white, with subtle shades of blue, orange, and black along the edges.
This species is active during spring and summer, usually from late April through June.
The Bluish Spring Moth, a type of moth in New Jersey, can often be seen in meadows, fields, and gardens searching for nectar and pollen.
They are beneficial insects as they help to pollinate various plants, ensuring a healthy and productive ecosystem.
9. Boxwood Leaftier Moth
The Boxwood Leaftier Moth (Galasa nigrinodis) is one of the various types of moths in New Jersey.
It can be recognized by its black and yellow stripes, which run lengthwise along its body. It also has brownish-gray wings and a reddish-brown thorax.
This moth is most active during the warmer months, from April to September, and is usually seen on boxwoods and other shrubs.
They are attracted to bright lights, making them easy to spot at night. This type of moth feeds on the leaves of plants, leaving behind small holes in their wake.
Meanwhile, they can be destructive to gardens if they become too numerous, as they will chew through all available foliage.
Fortunately, this species, on our list of the types of moths in New Jersey, is relatively easy to control with chemical insecticides and beneficial nematodes.
Homeowners should keep an eye out for these pests and take action quickly if they become a problem.
10. Brown Panopoda Moth
The Brown Panopoda Moth (Panopoda carneicosta) is a large, distinctive moth found in the eastern United States and Canada.
This species has a wingspan of up to 4 inches and is a light brown color with a pattern of black and white spots.
It can often be seen flying around during the day and is also active at night. The caterpillars feed on the leaves of trees such as maples, poplars, and willows.
The Brown Panopoda Moth, one of the types of moths in New Jersey, is an important part of New Jersey’s natural ecosystem and is beneficial for pollination.
Although it is not considered to be a pest, it does have the potential to cause damage to trees if it becomes too abundant in one area.
Gardeners should watch this species, as it may become a nuisance if left unchecked.
11. Cecropia Silk Moth
The Cecropia Silk Moth (Hyalophora cecropia) is one of the largest moths in North America and can be found in New Jersey.
It is a large and impressive moth with a wingspan of up to six inches, making it one of the most recognizable types of moths in New Jersey.
The moth is easily identified by its reddish-brown wings and the large eyespots along the edges of its hindwings.
When at rest, this moth folds its wings together, creating a triangular shape with the eyespots along the outside edges.
The caterpillar is black and yellow with two rows of yellow spots along its back.
This species is found throughout much of North America and feeds on various trees, shrubs, and flowers.
In New Jersey, they can be found during the spring and summer months and are often seen in residential areas near gardens and wooded areas.
If disturbed, these types of moths in New Jersey will fly away quickly, so look closely when trying to spot them!
12. Close-Banded Yellowhorn Moth
The Close-banded Yellowhorn Moth (Colocasia propinquilinea) is a colorful and impressive moth species found in New Jersey.
It has a wingspan of 2.5 to 3.5 inches, with a yellow and brown pattern on its wings.
This species is characterized by its long, thin antennae and distinctive yellow bands along the edges of its wings.
It is one of the numerous types of moths in New Jersey commonly found in woodlands and gardens, feeding on nectar from various flowers.
The caterpillar of this moth is also quite interesting and has a distinct appearance. It is greenish-brown with black stripes running along the sides of its body.
The larvae feed on various types of trees, such as oak, maple, cherry, and walnut.
These moths are an important part of the ecosystem in New Jersey and play an important role in maintaining healthy tree populations.
13. Dimorphic Tosale Moth
The Dimorphic Tosale Moth (Tosale oviplagalis) is an attractive species found in New Jersey and parts of the northeastern US.
This species is identified by its yellow-orange wings, with a white border and a broad black band across the midsection.
The underside of the wings features a pattern of small spots and a diagonal white stripe. It also has two different color morphs – one darker than the other.
This moth is active in late spring and summer but is usually only seen when disturbed, such as when lights or windows are opened at night.
The larvae of the Dimorphic Tosale Moth, one of the types of moths in New Jersey, feed on various plants, including grasses, clovers, and various garden crops.
Moreover, they can become a pest of small grain crops, although they rarely do so in large numbers.
Adult moths feed on flower nectar, especially from lily-of-the-valley, goldenrod, and dandelion.
They are attracted to light, so they can sometimes be observed in gardens and meadows after dark.
14. Confused Haploa
The Confused Haploa Moth (Haploa confusa) is a medium-sized moth found in many areas of New Jersey. Its dark wings easily identify it with white lines and spots.
The adults usually have a wingspan of 1.25 – 2.0 inches, and their caterpillars are light green with black stripes.
They can be seen from April through October in open, sunny areas. The adults feed on various plants, including asters, daisies, thistles, and dandelions.
The larvae of this species are often mistaken for other moths, such as the Prominent Moth, due to their similar appearance.
However, the Confused Haploa Moth on this list of the various types of moths in New Jersey can be distinguished by its long legs and dark stripes on its wings.
This moth species is not considered a pest but tends to feed heavily on certain plants, which can harm agricultural crops.
15. Cross-Striped Cabbageworm Moth
The Cross-striped Cabbageworm Moth (Evergestis rimosalis) is not left out of the list of the types of moths in New Jersey.
It is known for its unique mottled pattern of yellowish-brown and black stripes. The adult moth has a wingspan of up to 1.25 inches and can be seen during summer.
Furthermore, they are attracted to light and prefer to feed on flowering plants, such as cabbage and broccoli.
The larvae can be seen feeding on the leaves of these plants, and they can quickly cause damage to crops.
To reduce their population, removing any infested leaves and disposing of them away from the garden is recommended.
16. Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth
The Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth (Malacosoma americanum) is a species of moth native to North America.
It is found in woodlands, meadows, and other open habitats from the Atlantic Coast to the Pacific Coast.
The adult moth is white or gray with a wingspan of 1.25–2.0 inches and has three distinct black lines on its forewings.
The Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moth’s larvae are distinctive for their tent-like structures formed out of leaves and silk that they build on the branches of host trees, often apple or cherry.
The caterpillars feed on the foliage of their host plants and can be a nuisance as they strip them of their leaves.
As they mature, they pupate in the tents they have made and emerge as adult moths in early summer.
Adult Eastern Tent Caterpillar Moths are also important types of moths in New Jersey and are nocturnal.
They are attracted to light but are not considered pests since they do not feed on crops or cause other damage.
However, people should be aware that these moths can cause a skin rash or an allergic reaction if they come into contact with humans.
17. Fir Tussock Moth
The Fir Tussock Moth (Orgyia detrita) is not excluded from this list of several types of moths in New Jersey.
It is part of the family Lymantriidae and is known for its fuzzy yellow and brown coloring.
These moths are also attracted to light and often congregate around bright outdoor lights or on illuminated window sills.
When it comes to size, these moths can grow up to 0.75 inches in length, with a wingspan of 1.5 inches.
The Fir Tussock Moth is considered a pest due to the damage it can cause to crops.
The caterpillar stage of this moth feeds on the foliage of various trees and shrubs such as oaks, willows, spruces, maples, and other deciduous trees.
This feeding can sometimes defoliate entire trees and shrubs, leading to economic losses for farmers and agricultural operations.
These moths can also affect humans as their hairs contain toxins that may cause an allergic reaction in sensitive individuals.
These reactions can range from mild skin irritation and rashes to respiratory problems like asthma.
Therefore, it is recommended that anyone affected by these moths take the necessary precautions, such as wearing protective clothing outdoors or avoiding contact with them altogether.
In conclusion, the Fir Tussock Moth (Orgyia detrita) is a common species of moth found in New Jersey that is attracted to light and can cause damage to crops and humans.
Therefore, it is important to be aware of their presence in your area and take the necessary precautions when dealing with these types of moths in New Jersey!
18. Four-Spotted Gluphisia Moth
The Four-spotted Gluphisia Moth (Gluphisia avimacula) is one of the most common types of moths in New Jersey.
It is a small, medium-sized moth with grayish-brown wings with four distinctive white spots near the tips.
These moths have long antennae, and their hind wings are larger than their forewings.
This species is not considered a major pest, generally feeds on low vegetation, and is considered harmless to humans.
The larvae feed on various trees and shrubs, including oaks, cherries, and willow.
They can be seen flying around during the day and resting at night.
Although they do not cause much damage, they should still be monitored as they can become numerous in some areas.
19. Giant Leopard Moth
The Giant Leopard Moth (Hypercompe scribonia) is a species of moth native to North America, particularly the East Coast.
It is also known as the Eyed Tiger Moth due to its striking yellow and black coloration.
The wingspan of this moth can reach up to 2.5 inches, making it one of the largest moths in New Jersey.
The Giant Leopard Moth, one of the many types of moths in New Jersey, has a thick body covered with gray and white hairs.
Its head and thorax are yellow, and the abdomen is black with white stripes.
Its wings are yellow, with a large black spot near the tip of each wing. This moth species has four eyespots, which give it its name, “Eyed Tiger Moth.”
This species is commonly found in flowers and tree bark during summer.
The larvae of this moth feed on the leaves of oaks, willows, maples, and other hardwood trees.
They spin silken webs to protect themselves from predators while they feed.
The Giant Leopard Moth is harmless to humans and has no known adverse effects.
While it may be an attractive moth species, it’s important to remember that touching or handling any of the different types of moths in New Jersey can cause harm to them.
20. Goldcap Moss-eater Moth
The Goldcap Moss-eater Moth (Epimartyria auricrinella) is a small moth native to the United States, primarily found in New Jersey.
It has a wingspan of approximately 15 to 17 mm and is recognizable by its distinctive gold and white coloration.
The hindwings are more yellowish, with dark spots along the margin.
The larvae of the Goldcap Moss-eater Moth feed on various mosses, lichens, and other plant matter found in wooded areas.
Adult moths of these particular moths in New Jersey are nocturnal and can be seen flying around lights in the evening.
They are not considered a pest species, and they do not cause any damage to crops or structures.
This species is not as well-known as some other moths native to New Jersey, but it is an interesting addition to the local moth fauna.
If you’re out in the woods at night and see a strange gold and white moth flying around, there’s a good chance it’s a Goldcap Moss-eater, one of the most beautiful types of moths in New Jersey!
21. Granite Moth
Granite Moths (Macaria granitata) are types of moths in New Jersey, belonging to the family of Noctuidae.
They typically have dark brown or black wings, with some having shades of red and white on their bodies.
They can be found around granite outcrops, stone walls, and other rocky areas. Their larvae are voracious feeders and can eat through trees and woody plants.
Adult granite moths can be seen flying around at night and are attracted to lights.
Granite moths also prefer to lay their eggs near fallen logs and other debris where their larvae can feed and grow.
These types of moths in New Jersey are important pollinators of many wild plants and flowers in the area, so they play an important role in the local ecosystem.
22. Grapeleaf Skeletonizer Moth
The Grape leaf Skeletonizer Moth (Harrisina americana) is one of the most common types of moths in New Jersey.
This moth is found in the Eastern United States and parts of Canada, as far west as Wisconsin.
Its larvae feed on grape leaves, thus the name ‘Grapeleaf Skeletonizer.’
The adult moth has a wingspan of about 1.5 inches and is quite colorful.
The forewings are reddish-brown with a yellow band along the inner edge, while the hindwings are yellow-brown with a black border.
The moths fly from mid-June through September, and their larvae can be seen on grapevine leaves throughout the summer months.
Grape leaf Skeletonizer moths are typically found in gardens, parks, and wooded areas.
They are active during the day and tend to rest on tree trunks or leaves at night.
The trails can easily identify the larvae they leave behind after they feed on the leaves.
They also create webbing over the leaves as they feed, which can damage the plant.
If you’re looking to find these types of moths in New Jersey, visiting wooded areas, gardens, or parks near where grapes are grown is best.
You may also find them resting on trees or leaves during the day.
Although the Grapeleaf Skeletonizer Moth is not considered a pest, it is still important to watch it if you live near grapevines.
23. Green Pug Moth
Green pug moths (Eupithecia phoeniceata) are another interesting type of moths in New Jersey.
They have a 10-13 mm wingspan and are recognizable by their yellowish-green color and oblong spots on the front wings.
The moth’s larval stage is known to feed on grapevine leaves and other vine species.
The adults fly in the early morning and late afternoon when it is cooler, searching for nectar-producing flowers.
These moths can be seen in many areas of New Jersey, often near grapevine plants.
In the summertime, they are typically seen near fields and meadows that contain wildflower species.
Green pug moths can make a great addition to any garden due to their bright colors and tendency to feed on plant pests.
24. Gray-Patched Prominent
The Gray-patched Prominent Moth (Dasylophia thyatiroides) is native to the eastern United States, including New Jersey.
This moth typically has a wingspan of about 1 1⁄2 inches and a large, black-and-white patterned wing.
The most distinguishing feature of this insect on our list of the types of moths in New Jersey is its red-orange head, thorax, and abdomen.
The caterpillar of the Gray-patched Prominent Moth can be found feeding on oak, maple, and cherry trees throughout New Jersey.
In its later stages, the caterpillar develops a light gray-green body and a brown head, and it can often be seen crawling along branches or trunks in search of food.
The Gray-patched Prominent Moth is an important species to New Jersey’s ecosystem as it serves as prey and predator.
Smaller moths and butterflies are the main food source for this species of caterpillars, while the adult moths feed on nectar from flowers.
This helps ensure that pollination continues throughout the state and that native plant populations remain healthy.
25. Hag Moth
The Hag Moth (Phobetron pithecium) is a species of moth found in North America, particularly in the eastern United States and southern Canada.
The wingspan of the adult moth ranges from 22 to 40 mm, and they have a pale yellowish or grayish-brown color.
The Hag Moth’s most noticeable characteristic is its long “spine” that protrudes from the end of its abdomen. This spine is usually white with a reddish-brown tip.
The larvae of the Hag Moth, one of the types of moths in New Jersey, are also quite distinctive, with a black head and striped body.
Hag Moths feed on various plants, including maple and hickory trees, as well as various shrubs and herbaceous plants.
The larvae feed on the foliage of these plants and can sometimes cause significant damage.
The presence of Hag Moths may indicate an infestation of other insect pests, as they tend to feed in the same areas.
If you notice these types of moths in New Jersey, it is best to check your plants for any signs of damage or infestation.
26. Harris’ Three-Spot Moth
Harris’ Three-spot Moth (Harrisimemna trisignata) is active and attractive in New Jersey.
It belongs to the family Erebidae and is a medium-sized species with a wingspan of around 1.5 inches.
The larvae of this species are green in color and feed on lichens, mosses, and algae.
The adult moth has distinctive white and brown markings on its wings that look like three spots on each side.
These spots consist of one small spot near the middle of the forewing and two larger spots towards the outer edges.
The Harris’ Three-spot Moth is nocturnal and can be seen in meadows, grasslands, marshes, and wooded areas.
It is most active during the summer and will flutter through the air in search of food or mates.
The larvae of this species, on this list of the types of moths in New Jersey, often damage lichen-covered rocks, buildings, and fences.
If you notice any signs of damage, it’s best to contact an expert to help you get rid of them as soon as possible.
Harris’ Three-spot Moth is a fascinating species to observe in your backyard or while exploring nature.
It’s an important part of the local ecology and should be appreciated for its beauty and unique features.
27. Herald Moth
The Herald Moth (Scoliopteryx libatrix) is a common moth species found in New Jersey and the Eastern United States.
It can be identified by its striking yellow and black stripes and its wingspan of 1-2 inches.
Its bright colors may help it to blend in with the yellow flowers and leaves it often rests on.
These types of moths in New Jersey are active during the day and are attracted to light at night.
They prefer humid environments and can be seen in gardens, woodlands, meadows, and marshes.
The larvae feed on grasses, clovers, and other low-growing plants.
The Herald Moth can be a nuisance to gardeners as the larvae eat many different plant types.
To prevent this, gardeners should inspect their plants regularly and remove any caterpillars they find.
The adults do not feed on plants, so there is no need to worry about them damaging your garden.
This moth species is a beneficial insect because it helps pollinate flowers, control pests, and provide food for predators like bats, birds, and spiders.
They are types of moths in New Jersey that are important members of the ecosystem and should be protected whenever possible.
28. Jewel-Tailed Slug Moth
The Jewel-tailed Slug Moth (Packardia geminata), also known as the Eastern Lappet Moth, is a large and impressive moth native to New Jersey.
Its wings have brown and yellow patches, with black and yellow stripes, making it look almost like a small tiger.
This moth has a wingspan of up to 3 inches, and its body is usually around 1 1⁄2 inches long.
The Jewel-tailed Slug Moth feeds on various deciduous trees, including oak, maple, cherry, birch, and hickory.
It is especially fond of oaks and prefers to feed on the leaves of these trees. They can also be found in gardens or other areas with plenty of foliage.
These moths can be found in the summertime in parts of New Jersey but are most abundant from late August to early October.
They can be identified by their unique markings, which include two large eyespots near the head and two small eyespots near the wingtips.
The Jewel-tailed Slug Moth, the last on our list of the different types of moths in New Jersey, is an important pollinator for many plants.
Its larvae, slug caterpillars, feed on leaves and flower petals. They also help control certain pest populations that can harm crops and gardens.
This beautiful moth is a great addition to any garden or landscape and will make an eye-catching display!
Conclusion
Moths are a familiar sight in New Jersey, but not many people know the variety of moths that can be found in the Garden State.
New Jersey is home to various moths of all shapes and sizes, from the luna moth to the tiger moth.
Above, we explored the types of moths in New Jersey that you might find and their unique characteristics.
Read the comprehensive guide above to learn more about these incredible creatures!
