Dusky groundling facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Dusky groundling |
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The dusky groundling (scientific name: Condica vecors) is a type of moth found across North America. It belongs to a large family of moths called Noctuidae, often known as "owlet moths." A scientist named Achille Guenée first officially described this moth in 1852.
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Meet the Dusky Groundling Moth
The dusky groundling moth is a common insect you might spot in many parts of North America. It's known for its dark, mottled wings. Like all moths, it goes through a complete life cycle, starting as an egg, then a larva (caterpillar), a pupa, and finally, an adult moth.
What Does It Look Like?
Dusky groundling moths are medium-sized. Their wingspan usually measures between 29 and 38 millimeters. That's about the length of two standard paper clips!
Wings and Colors
Their front wings, called forewings, are a mix of dark brown and black. They often have a mottled, or patchy, pattern. This helps them blend in with their surroundings, like tree bark or leaves. Their back wings, called hindwings, are a grayish-brown color. They have a noticeable whitish fringe along the edges. This fringe looks a bit like tiny hairs.
Where Does It Live?
You can find the dusky groundling moth in many different places. Its home range stretches from Newfoundland in eastern Canada all the way down to Florida in the southeastern United States. It also lives west to Arizona and north to Ontario, Canada. This wide range means it can adapt to many different climates.
Its Life Story
Adult dusky groundling moths are usually active for several months each year. In cooler northern areas, you might see them flying from May to August. In warmer southern regions, they can be found from April all the way to October.
Generations Each Year
These moths are quite busy! They typically have two generations, or groups of offspring, born each year. This means that the moths you see flying in spring will lay eggs, and their caterpillars will grow into new moths by summer. These summer moths then lay eggs for a second generation.
What Do Young Moths Eat?
The young dusky groundling moths are caterpillars. They need to eat a lot to grow big and strong.
Caterpillar Food
These caterpillars enjoy munching on certain plants. Their favorite foods include plants from the Eupatorium genus. This group of plants includes things like Joe-Pye weed. They also like to eat lettuce, which is a common garden plant.
