31 Different Types of Moths in Pennsylvania

Types of Moths in Pennsylvania
Photo by Aman Shrestha

Pennsylvania is home to various moths, and many species can be found throughout the state.

From small and delicate species to large and colorful moths, a wide range of moths call Pennsylvania home.

In our blog post, we’ll look at Pennsylvania’s most common types of moths and discuss their habitats, behaviors, and identifying features. 

Whether you’re a moth enthusiast or just curious to learn more about the types of moths in Pennsylvania, our post will provide all the information you need!

If you’re an insect enthusiast living in or visiting Pennsylvania, you may be delighted to learn that the state is home to various moths. 

With nearly 3,000 species of moths documented in the state, there is plenty of diversity to explore.

Our blog post will explore the different types of moths in Pennsylvania, from the commonly seen to the rare and exotic.

Read on to learn more about the fascinating world of moths in the Keystone State!

1. Pero Moth

Pero moths (Pero spp.) are first on our list of types of moths in Pennsylvania.

It’s a diverse group of moths that are native to the state of Pennsylvania.

They come in various colors, including brown, yellow, and white. While their exact numbers are unknown, they can be found throughout the state. 

These types of moths in Pennsylvania usually emerge during the warmer months, as they are most active during the day.

The larvae of Pero moths are small, slender, and worm-like, with a pattern of dots along their bodies.

The adult moth has a wingspan of 1-1.5 inches, and their bodies are predominantly gray or brown.

Pero moths can cause damage to crops such as corn, soybeans, and tobacco, as well as to ornamental plants.

They can also cause minor damage to clothing and furniture. As such, it is important to take preventive measures to keep them away from these items.

When controlling Pero moths, using insecticides is generally not recommended.

Instead, more natural solutions such as sticky traps, light traps, and pheromone traps are often used to capture and remove the moths from the environment.

2. White-Ribboned Carpet Moth

White-Ribboned Carpet Moth
by willapalens is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The White-ribboned Carpet Moth (Mesoleuca ruficillata) is also on our list of types of moths in Pennsylvania.

It is a moth species found in Pennsylvania and other parts of the eastern United States.

Due to its feeding habits, it belongs to the family Geometridae and is considered a minor pest species. 

The White-ribboned Carpet Moth has an average wingspan of 2 inches and is gray. The wings have distinctive white stripes and a black dot near the tip.

The caterpillar of this species can be identified by its green and yellow stripes and brown head and feet. 

These types of moths in Pennsylvania can feed on various plants, including oak, willow, elm, cherry, apple, and more.

They are known to cause damage to crops, as well as ornamental plants.

Due to its feeding habits, the White-ribboned Carpet Moth is a minor pest species, but it is not a major problem.

Control measures can be implemented to prevent infestations if necessary. These moths are not known to spread diseases and are not a threat to human health.

3. White Slant-Line Moth

White Slant-Line Moth
by Matt Tillett is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The White Slant-line Moth (Tetracis cachexiata) is a moth native to Pennsylvania. It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of about 1-1.5 inches. 

The upper side of its wings is grayish-white with gray markings, while the underside is more lightly colored. Its forewings have a distinctive black line from the base to the tip.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are most commonly found in wooded areas throughout Pennsylvania.

They feed primarily on leaves, although they may occasionally be seen visiting flowers for nectar.

While they aren’t considered major agricultural pests, their presence can indicate the presence of other pests, such as caterpillars and larvae, that may cause damage to crops or trees.

White Slant-line Moths are active during the summer months and may be seen flying around during the day or resting on tree trunks at night.

They do not migrate, so they will likely remain there throughout the season if you find them in your backyard or garden.

4. Waved Sphinx Moth

Waved Sphinx Moth
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Waved Sphinx Moth (Ceratomia undulosa) is a large moth native to Pennsylvania.

It has a wingspan of about 4-5 inches and is a medium brown color with white stripes across the wings.

Its hindwings are more pointed than other sphinx moths, giving it its namesake waved shape.

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania emerge in June and fly into August, during which time they can be seen in wooded areas and meadows.

They are strong fliers often seen nectaring on flowers, especially in the early evening.

The larvae feed mainly on oaks and willows, spinning distinctive silk webs around them.

The Waved Sphinx Moth is a beautiful addition to any garden or nature scene in Pennsylvania, providing an interesting spectacle as they fly and feed.

5. Warm-Chevroned Moth

Warm-Chevroned Moth
by Audrey R Hoff is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The Warm-chevroned Moth (Tortricidia testacea) is a native species to Pennsylvania.

This small, grayish moth is easily identified by its distinct pattern of orange-yellow lines and chevrons, which form striking patterns against its gray wings.

It is usually found in wooded areas and is often seen in the summer months.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are known to be active during the day and night, but they tend to be most active at night.

It is common to find them resting on tree trunks or bark during the day.

The Warm-chevroned Moth is an important pollinator, as it feeds on nectar from various plants and flowers.

In terms of its life cycle, the Warm-chevroned Moth lays its eggs on various deciduous trees and shrubs.

Once the eggs hatch, the larvae will feed on the leaves of the host plant for several weeks before pupating and emerging as adult moths.

The Warm-chevroned Moth is a great addition to any garden or outdoor space in Pennsylvania and can help contribute to a healthy ecosystem in the area.

This species may be a great option if you want an interesting insect to observe in your backyard!

6. Variable Antepone Moth

The Variable Antepione Moth (Antepione thisoaria) is a moth species in Pennsylvania.

It is gray-brown and has two light gray-brown stripes that run from the head to the tip of the wings.

The forewing also has three black dots along the centerline. 

The Variable Antepione Moth typically lives in forests and wooded areas but can also be found near gardens and other urban environments.

It feeds on plants such as dandelions, nettles, and goldenrods.

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania usually emerge in late May and early June, with a second brood emerging in late July and August.

They are an important part of the local ecosystem as they pollinate plants and provide food for birds, mammals, and insects.

7. Unadorned Carpet Moth

Unadorned Carpet Moth
by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Unadorned Carpet Moth (Hydrelia inornata) is a small moth found in Pennsylvania.

Its wings are light gray with faint brown lines near the edges, and its body is light gray.

It has small white spots on its wings that look like they’re made of paper. The wingspan of the Unadorned Carpet Moth can reach up to 20 mm.

The Unadorned Carpet Moth is found mainly in hardwood forests, but it can also be found in meadows and fields.

It prefers moist and humid habitats and can be active from late April to early September.

They usually fly around at night, although you may also see them flying during the day.

The larvae of the Unadorned Carpet Moth feed on the foliage of many different trees, including ash, basswood, oak, cherry, poplar, and willow.

The larvae are light green with yellow stripes along their sides. They can reach up to 12 mm in length.

When the Unadorned Carpet Moth is ready to lay eggs, it will attach them with a strong glue-like substance to the underside of its leaves.

The eggs hatch in 3 to 5 days and then begin feeding. The entire life cycle takes about a month to complete.

The Unadorned Carpet Moth is an important pollinator species to the overall health of Pennsylvania’s forests.

If you’re out in the forest at night, watch for these lovely types of moths in Pennsylvania!

8. Tufted Bird Dropping Moth

Tufted Bird Dropping Moth
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Tufted Bird Dropping Moth (Cerma cerintha) is a moth species in Pennsylvania. It is relatively small, with a wingspan of 1 inch or less.

The types of moths in Pennsylvania have white or yellowish-brown colored forewings and pale yellow hindwings, with a distinctive tuft of reddish-orange scales near the center of their back.

The Tufted Bird Dropping Moth is active at night, and like other moths, it can be attracted to light sources.

It feeds on various flowers and vegetation, including aster family members like daisies and goldenrods.

While this species can be a pest to gardeners, its population is insufficient to cause significant damage.

The Tufted Bird Dropping Moth is a unique and fascinating species that adds beauty to the Pennsylvania landscape.

Its distinctive tufts make it easy to identify, and its attractive coloration can bring a splash of life to any garden.

9. Spotted Datana Moth

Spotted Datana Moth
by ryan.f.mandelbaum is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Spotted Datana Moth (Datana perspicua) is next on our list of types of moths in Pennsylvania.

It is a small moth of the family Notodontidae in Pennsylvania and other North America. 

It has a wingspan of up to two inches and is gray with numerous dark spots on the forewings. Its hind wings are mostly white.

The larvae feed on many deciduous trees and shrubs, including oak, maple, apple, walnut, and hickory. 

Adult types of moths in Pennsylvania fly during the summer months, usually at night and around dusk.

They are attracted to lights and can sometimes be found in large numbers on window screens or lighted porches.

The Spotted Datana Moth is a common moth of eastern North America, and it can often be seen in yards and gardens throughout Pennsylvania.

10. Spiny Oak Slug Moth

Spiny Oak Slug Moth
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Spiny Oak Slug Moth (Euclea delphinii) is a striking moth that can be found throughout the state of Pennsylvania.

It gets its name from the fact that its caterpillars are slug-like in appearance, making them look like small slugs.

The moth is typically brown and yellow, with white stripes running across its wings. 

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania are often seen flying during the day but will come to lights at night.

The larvae feed on the foliage of various oak trees and may also consume other deciduous trees.

The adults can be found from April through August. They are especially common in wooded areas but can also be seen in more open areas such as fields and gardens.

11. Sorghum Webworm Moth

Sorghum Webworm Moth
by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Sorghum Webworm Moth (Nola cerebella) is a small, slender moth in Pennsylvania.

The wings are brownish-gray with four black dots near the tips and some wavy, yellowish lines.

They have a wingspan of about one inch, and their larvae feed on sorghum, corn, and other grasses.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are active during the day but most active at night.

Adults have been seen from late spring through the summer months.

The females lay eggs on the surface of grass blades, and when the larvae hatch, they feed on the leaves.

They create webbing to help them move around in search of food.

The larvae are white to light yellow and up to half an inch long. They will pupate in the soil and emerge as adults in about two weeks. 

Pennsylvania‘s adult types of moths will fly off for more food and places to lay eggs.

If you’re interested in finding these types of moths in Pennsylvania, look for them in fields, meadows, and other grassy areas.

You may also find them near lights at night, which they are drawn to due to their nocturnal habits.

12. Rose Hooktip Moth

Rose Hooktip Moth - types of moths in north carolina
by Andy Reago & Chrissy McClarren is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Rose Hooktip Moth (Oreta rosea), found in Pennsylvania, is a distinctive moth species.

Its wings are usually light yellowish-brown, with reddish-brown markings on them.

Its head is light yellowish-brown, with two dark stripes extending down its body’s sides. It also has a pair of long, curved antennas. 

The Rose Hooktip Moth has a wingspan of around 2.5 to 3.2 cm (1 to 1.25 inches).

The Rose Hooktip Moth is found in the eastern United States and Canada, from New Brunswick and Nova Scotia south to Georgia.

This species is found in various habitats, including woodlands, fields, and marshes.

Its caterpillars feed on the leaves of various trees and shrubs, including birch, oak, willow, and cherry.

The Rose Hooktip Moth is active at night and can be seen hovering around flowers in search of nectar.

They also come to lights at night, which can help attract them to your backyard or garden.

This species is an important pollinator of various plants and is one of the types of moths in Pennsylvania.

13. Ruddy Dagger Moth

Ruddy Dagger Moth
by xpda is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Ruddy Dagger Moth (Acronicta rubricoma) is a species of moth native to the state of Pennsylvania.

It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of up to 1.8 inches (4.5 cm). The moth has grayish or reddish-brown forewings with a faint purplish hue.

The hindwings are white, and the moth’s body is reddish brown. 

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are easily identified by their distinctive white markings, which form two ragged diagonal lines on the forewing.

This species can be found in fields, woodlands, and other areas throughout the state.

It feeds mainly on grasses and other plants but is not considered a significant pest species.

The Ruddy Dagger Moth is active during the day and night and is most commonly seen flying around in late summer and early autumn.

14. Red-Humped Caterpillar Moth

Red-Humped Caterpillar Moth
by dmoon10751 is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The Red-humped Caterpillar Moth (Schizura concinna) is a moth in Pennsylvania and many other parts of North America.

It is medium to large, with a wingspan of about two inches. The moth’s forewings are mostly gray-brown, while the hindwings are yellowish-gray and often have a reddish-brown hue near the base.

The caterpillar of Red-humped Caterpillar Moth is light to dark green and has a distinctive red stripe running along its back.

It is a voracious eater and can cause significant damage to plants and crops when left unchecked.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are attracted to light and will often be found around streetlights, windows, or other artificial light sources at night.

If you find this moth species in your garden, you should limit its exposure to artificial light to reduce its impact on your plants.

15. Mottled Grass-Veneer Moth

Mottled Grass-Veneer Moth
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Mottled Grass-Veneer Moth, known as Neodactria luteolellus, is a moth species in Pennsylvania.

It is a small moth, measuring only 0.7-1.0 inches long, with a wingspan of 1.3-1.5 inches.

Its forewings are usually light yellowish-brown or yellowish-gray, with an iridescent sheen, while its hindwings are yellowish-brown.

The types of moths in Pennsylvania live on grasses and other low-growing plants and typically feed on pollen, nectar, and other plant material.

It can be seen flying during the day or night from May through October.

The Mottled Grass-Veneer Moth is an important pollinator for many flowers and crops, such as wheat, oats, barley, and alfalfa.

It is also an important food source for some birds and other wildlife. As a result, it plays a key role in maintaining healthy ecosystems in Pennsylvania.

16. Banded Tiger Moth

Banded Tiger Moth - Types of Moths in Maryland
by Goshzilla – Dann is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

The Banded Tiger Moth (Apantesis vittata) is a common, brightly-colored moth in Pennsylvania.

Its wings are marked with yellow, black, and white stripes, giving it the distinctive “tiger” pattern.

The larvae of this species are often seen feeding on various broad-leaved plants.

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania Fly during the day and lay their eggs on the underside of leaves.

After hatching, the larvae feed for about three weeks before pupating. Adult moths emerge in late spring or early summer.

The Banded Tiger Moth is an important pollinator of many plant species. They also provide a food source for birds and other wildlife.

17. Barberry Geometer Moth

Barberry Geometer Moth - Types of Moths in Alabama
by crookrw is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The Barberry Geometer Moth (Coryphista meadii) is also on our list of types of moths in Pennsylvania.

It is an attractive insect native to Pennsylvania. It has striking black and white stripes and is about 1 inch long across its wings.

The species is found throughout the United States but is more common in the eastern states.

The types of moths in Pennsylvania prefer to inhabit areas with barberry or bayberry shrubs as they use these plants as host plants for their larvae.

Adult moths feed on various nectar sources, including flowers and sap flows. They typically fly during the day, so they are easy to spot when they visit your garden.

The Barberry Geometer Moth’s larvae feed on various plant materials such as raspberry, blackberry, strawberry, and other soft-leafed plants.

When the larvae have finished feeding, they form a cocoon and emerge as adult moths in the springtime.

The Barberry Geometer Moth is an important pollinator for several different types of plants and is a welcome addition to any garden or landscape.

Its striking pattern adds beauty and diversity to Pennsylvania’s natural landscape and helps keep the ecosystem balanced.

18. Bent-Line Carpet Moth

Bent-Line Carpet Moth - Types of Moths in Oregon
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Bent-line Carpet Moth (Costaconvexa centrostrigaria) is interesting-looking in Pennsylvania.

It has a wingspan of about 1 3/4 inches and features a distinct pattern of bright yellow, black, and white stripes on its wings.

The types of moths in Pennsylvania also have a large red dot near the center of each wing and a small white dot near the tip of the front wings. 

The Bent-line Carpet Moth is known to inhabit fields, pastures, and other grassy areas where its caterpillars feed on various plants, including grasses, weeds, and clovers.

They are most active during the summer months and can be seen flying around for food.

19. Black Bit Moth

Black Bit Moth - Types of Moths in Maryland
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Black Bit Moth (Celiptera frustulum) is a small, dark-colored moth found throughout Pennsylvania.

It has dark brown wings with dark stripes and spots, and its wingspan is usually around 1 inch.

The body of the Black Bit Moth is black, and its legs are brown.

Its caterpillar form is yellowish-green with black stripes, and it feeds mainly on grasses and small plants. 

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania emerge in the summer months and are active at night.

The larvae of the Black Bit Moth are known to feed on grasses and small plants, but they can also damage crops such as corn and beans.

To reduce damage caused by these moths, farmers often use crop rotation or natural predators such as ground beetles to help control the population.

Overall, the Black Bit Moth is an important part of the environment in Pennsylvania.

It helps provide food for other animals and can be beneficial to crops.

However, it is also important to be aware of the potential damage this moth can cause to crops and monitor its population to keep it under control.

20. Bluish Spring Moth

Bluish Spring Moth - Types of Moths in Alabama
by wackybadger is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0

The Bluish Spring Moth (Lomographa semiclarata) is a member of the Geometridae family and is native to Pennsylvania.

This moth species is known for its metallic blue-green wings, typically marked with white and brown stripes.

The forewings are marked by an inverted white “W” shape, while the hindwings feature three distinct white spots.

The adult moths measure between 1/2 inch and 1 1/2 inches in length. Bluish Spring types of moths in Pennsylvania prefer to inhabit deciduous forests, meadows, and urban areas.

The larva of the Bluish Spring Moth feeds on various trees, including oaks, beeches, hickories, and walnuts.

Adult types of moths in Pennsylvania tend to be active at night and will sometimes come to light sources.

In Pennsylvania, the Bluish Spring Moth can be seen flying around from mid-April through mid-June.

21. Confused Haploa Moth

Confused Haploa Moth - Types of Moths in New Jersey
by Gary Yankech is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0

The Confused Haploa Moth (Haploa confusa) is one of the most common types of moths in Pennsylvania.

It belongs to the family Noctuidae and is a medium-sized moth.

The wingspan of this species ranges from 1.2 to 1.7 inches, and its wings are usually light brown with dark markings. 

This species is distinguished by its overall “confused” appearance, often giving it its name.

Its long and broad forewings can also identify it with a white band at the edge near the base of the wing.

Confused Haploa moths are commonly found throughout the year and can often be seen resting on low shrubs or vegetation during the day.

They feed on nectar and pollen from flowers and can sometimes be seen fluttering around evening lights.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are also important pollinators and contribute to the health of our ecosystem.

22. Cross-Striped Cabbageworm Moth

Cross-Striped Cabbageworm Moth - Types of Moths in Alabama
by urtica is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The Cross-striped Cabbageworm Moth (Evergestis rimosalis), also known as the Striped Cabbageworm, is a species of small, nocturnal moths found in Pennsylvania.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are known for their slender, dark gray wings with a light yellowish-green transverse line running along the middle of each wing.

The hindwings are generally uniform gray but may sometimes be lighter.

Adult types of moths in Pennsylvania feed on nectar and can often be found resting on flowers during the day.

The larvae of this species feed primarily on cabbage and related crops such as kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower.

They can be identified by their thick brown heads and gray bodies that have a white stripe down their back.

The larvae prefer older leaves, as they provide more protection from predators.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are an important species in Pennsylvania, both ecologically and economically.

Ecologically, they are important pollinators, providing vital services to plants.

Economically, they help protect crops from damage caused by their larvae.

It is important to note that these moths are not considered major pests and do not require special control measures to keep them in check.

23. Dart Moth

Dart Moth
by swallowedtail is licensed under CC CC0 1.0

The Dart Moth (Agnorisma bolii) is a medium-sized moth found in Pennsylvania and some parts of the eastern United States.

It has a mottled dark gray and black color pattern with a band of white dots at the bottom of its wings.

The wingspan of this moth is between 1.5 and 2 inches, making it one of the smaller moth species in Pennsylvania. 

These types of moths in Pennsylvania feed on various plants, including clover, alfalfa, and lettuce.

The Dart Moth’s caterpillar is light green and can be found in the same areas as the moth.

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania are most active at night and are attracted to lights.

24. Flowing-Line Hypena Moth

Flowing-line Hypena - Types of Moths in Texas Moth
by Dave Govoni is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The Flowing-line Hypena Moth (Hypena manalis) is a small moth species found in the United States, primarily Pennsylvania.

It’s a nocturnal insect that prefers wooded areas and can often be seen flying around during the night.

This species is named for its long and straight wing pattern, which gives it the appearance of flowing lines.

The Flowing-line Hypena Moth is generally brownish with two orange bands near the outer edges of its wings.

It can grow to a wingspan of about 1-1.5 inches, making it one of the largest moths in Pennsylvania.

This species is also quite active and can be found fluttering around lights in the evening.

The diet of the Flowing-line Hypena Moth consists of pollen, nectar, and other plant material.

They are an important part of the ecosystem as they help pollinate plants and disperse spores.

The larvae of this species feed on oak trees and other hardwood trees, helping to break down dead wood and turn it into new soil.

The Flowing-line Hypena Moth is an important part of Pennsylvania’s wildlife, helping to ensure healthy forests and pollinate local plants.

Watch for these types of moths in Pennsylvania if you’re out at night!

25. Four-Barred Gray Moth

Four-barred-Gray Moth
by Fyn Kynd is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Four-barred Gray Moth (Aethalura intertexta) is a moth species found in Pennsylvania and other parts of North America.

This moth species has a wingspan of around 2 cm, and they tend to be gray or black, with some having four distinctive white bars on the forewings.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania are usually seen between May and October and feed mainly on nectar from flowers.

They can also be found in areas with gardens or fields of flowers, where they often rest on the plants or flowers during the day.

The Four-barred Gray Moth plays an important role in the ecosystem, acting as a pollinator for various plants.

They are also eaten by birds and other predators, which helps keep the population of these moths in check.

The Four-barred Gray Moth is a fascinating species that contributes to Pennsylvania’s beauty and biodiversity.

26. Hahncappsia Moth

Hahncappsia Moth - Types of Moths in Oregon
by Wildreturn is licensed under CC BY 2.0

Hahncappsia (Hahncappsia spp.) is a genus of moths found in the family Noctuidae.

They are native to Pennsylvania and can be found throughout the state.

The adults are medium-sized, with a wingspan of about an inch and a half.

The wings are mottled grayish brown and cream-colored, and the body is grayish brown with a black line running down the center of the back. 

The larvae of these types of moths in Pennsylvania feed on grasses, forbes, and other low-lying vegetation.

They are considered minor pests as they can damage lawns, gardens, and other outdoor areas if their populations become too large.

To identify this species, look for its distinct shape, mottled wings, and grayish-brown coloration.

27. Hemina Pinion Moth

Hemina Pinion Moth
by Chris Kratzer is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

The Hemina Pinion Moth (Lithophane hemina) is a medium-sized moth with a 2.3-3.3 cm wingspan and yellow-brown hindwings.

Its body and wings are a dark, yellowish-brown color. The wings have a dark brown median band and dark spots along the wing edge.

The Hemina Pinion Moth is found in deciduous forests in Pennsylvania from late May through September.

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania are mainly active at night, resting on tree trunks or branches during the day.

The adults feed on nectar from flowers such as burdock and goldenrod. The larvae feed on various trees, including hickory, oak, birch, and maple.

The Hemina Pinion Moth is an important species in Pennsylvania as it helps maintain healthy ecosystems.

This species is an important food source for other animals, such as birds and bats. As such, it is important to maintain its habitat to ensure the long-term survival of this species.

28. Manto Tussock Moth

Manto Tussock Moth
by Scarlet-Eye is licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0

The Manto Tussock Moth (Dasychira manto) is unmistakable in Pennsylvania.

This moth species has a distinctive brown coloration and can be seen fluttering about during the summer months.

They are usually found near coniferous trees and have about two-inch wingspan. 

The underside of the wings is mottled gray-brown with dark stripes and a yellowish band along the lower edge.

The moth’s body is covered in hair, giving it its fluffy appearance. The head is black, and the thorax has a grayish hue.

These types of moths in Pennsylvania tend to be solitary and do not form large colonies.

They feed on tree sap and pollen and will lay their eggs on the bark of trees.

When the larvae hatch, they feed on the needles of evergreens, causing them to turn yellow. In addition to trees, they can also feed on flowers and other plants. 

The Manto Tussock Moth is an important part of Pennsylvania’s ecosystem, providing food for other animals such as birds and bats.

While they may cause some damage to trees, their presence is important for maintaining the balance of nature in the state.

29. Milkweed Tussock Moth

The Milkweed Tussock Moth (Euchaetes egle) is one of the most common types of moths in Pennsylvania.

These moths are typically gray, with yellow and orange stripes running lengthwise down their wings. They are relatively small, measuring 1 and 1 1⁄2 inches long. 

The Milkweed Tussock Moth can be found throughout Pennsylvania during the spring and summer, often near fields and open spaces where they can feed on nectar and pollen.

The larvae of these moths feed exclusively on milkweed and other related plants, which they use to sustain themselves until adulthood. 

The Milkweed Tussock Moth plays an important role in the local ecosystem, serving as a food source for birds, bats, and other predators.

Additionally, the larvae of these moths have been known to help control the growth of invasive species like the common milkweed. 

The Milkweed Tussock Moth is a great choice if you are looking for an interesting moth to observe or photograph.

With its striking yellow and orange stripes, it is sure to draw attention from onlookers.

30. One-Eyed Sphinx Moth

One-Eyed Sphinx Moth
by the JoshMeister is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 2.0

The one-eyed sphinx moth (Smerinthus cerisyi), also known as Cerisyi’s Sphinx Moth, is next on our list of types of moths in Pennsylvania.

It is a moth species found in the eastern United States and Canada. It is a large, bright moth with a wingspan of up to 3 inches (8 cm). 

It has a distinctive large eye spot on each wing and a long, pointed proboscis.

It has grayish-brown wings, yellow-brown bars along the leading edge, and gray and white on the hindwings.

The larvae are bright green or yellow-green with light-colored stripes and spots and have four conspicuous fleshy horns.

This species is active during the day and is often seen feeding on the nectar of flowers.

It is common in gardens, parks, and meadows but can also be found in open woodlands. It can pests crops and trees, such as walnut and apple trees.

31. Orange Virbia Moth

Orange Virbia Moth
by cricketsblog is licensed under CC BY 2.0

The Orange Virbia Moth is a common moth species in the Pennsylvanian region.

The adult types of moths in Pennsylvania are often seen flying during the day or dusk and may be mistaken for butterflies.

They have a wingspan of around 1.5 inches, with the front wings being mostly yellowish-orange with darker brown markings. 

The hind wings are much paler and more yellowish in tone.

The caterpillars of this species are also easily identifiable, as they have a black-and-white mottled pattern on their bodies.

They feed on various plants, including oak, maple, willow, apple trees, dandelions, and other weeds.

If you’re looking for a unique moth to add to your garden or backyard, the Orange Virbia Moth is an excellent choice.

They are relatively easy to attract and can be an interesting addition to any outdoor space. They also help keep insect populations in check by feeding on pests like aphids.

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