List of moths of Canada (Noctuidae) facts for kids

This article is about the many types of moths from the family known as Noctuidae that live in Canada. These moths are often called "owlet moths." This list helps you learn about the different kinds of owlet moths found across Canada. It's also part of a bigger list of all the moths in Canada.

After each moth's name, you'll see a short code. This code tells you which Canadian provinces or territories the moth can be found in.

Meet the Owlet Moths: Noctuidae Family

The Noctuidae family is one of the largest groups of moths. They are often called owlet moths because many of them fly at night, just like owls! These moths come in all shapes and sizes, but many have dull colors like brown, gray, or black. This helps them blend in with tree bark or leaves during the day.

Canada is home to a huge variety of these fascinating insects. Scientists have found many different species of owlet moths living in various parts of the country, from the forests of British Columbia to the eastern coasts of Newfoundland. Each type of moth has its own unique features and habits.

Calpinae Moths: A Glimpse

The Calpinae subfamily includes several interesting owlet moths found in Canada. For example, the Scoliopteryx libatrix, also known as the Herald Moth, is one of the most widespread moths in this group. It can be found in many provinces, including Ontario, Quebec, British Columbia, and even the Yukon.

Catocalinae Moths: Underwing Beauties

The Catocalinae subfamily is famous for its "underwing" moths. These moths often have brightly colored hindwings, like red, orange, or yellow, which they flash to startle predators if they feel threatened. When they rest, their dull front wings cover these bright colors, making them hard to spot. Many species from this group, such as the Catocala concumbens, live across Canada, from the Atlantic to the Pacific.

Euteliinae Moths: Small but Mighty

Moths in the Euteliinae subfamily are generally smaller than some of their owlet moth relatives. They might not be as flashy, but they play important roles in their ecosystems. You can find several species from this group in Canadian provinces like Ontario and Quebec.

Herminiinae Moths: The Litter Moths

The Herminiinae subfamily is often called "litter moths" because many of their caterpillars feed on dead leaves or decaying plant matter on the ground. These moths are usually small and have a more delicate appearance. They are common in many parts of Canada, including British Columbia and the Maritime provinces.

Hypeninae Moths: Snout Moths

Moths in the Hypeninae subfamily are sometimes called "snout moths" because they often have long, forward-pointing palps (mouthparts) that look a bit like a snout. This group includes many species that are found throughout Canada, adapting to different climates and environments.

Strepsimaninae Moths: Unique Features

The Strepsimaninae subfamily contains moths with some unique characteristics, though they might not be as well-known as other groups. Several species from this subfamily have been recorded in various Canadian regions, from Ontario to Nova Scotia.

Acronictinae Moths: Dagger Moths

The Acronictinae subfamily is known as "dagger moths" because many of their species have dark, dagger-like markings on their forewings. These moths are quite common and can be found in almost every Canadian province and territory, including the far north.

Bryophilinae Moths: Lichen Moths

Moths in the Bryophilinae subfamily are often called "lichen moths" because their caterpillars typically feed on lichens growing on trees or rocks. Their camouflage is excellent, helping them blend in with their surroundings. In Canada, you can find these moths in provinces like British Columbia and Alberta.

Pantheinae Moths: Tufted Moths

The Pantheinae subfamily includes moths that sometimes have tufts of hair-like scales on their bodies or wings, giving them a "tufted" appearance. These moths are found across Canada, from the eastern provinces to the western territories.

Raphiinae Moths: Distinctive Patterns

The Raphiinae subfamily contains moths with distinctive patterns on their wings. While not as numerous in species as some other subfamilies, they are an interesting part of Canada's moth diversity. Species like Raphia frater are found in many Canadian regions.

Acontiinae Moths: Small and Colorful

Moths in the Acontiinae subfamily are often small and can have quite colorful or intricate patterns on their wings, unlike the more subdued colors of many other owlet moths. They are found in various Canadian habitats, including the prairies and eastern forests.

Agaristinae Moths: Day-Flying Moths

The Agaristinae subfamily is unique among owlet moths because many of its species are active during the day, rather than at night. They often have bright colors and patterns, making them stand out. You can spot these moths in different parts of Canada, from Ontario to British Columbia.

Amphipyrinae Moths: Common Visitors

The Amphipyrinae subfamily includes some very common owlet moths that you might see around lights at night. They are widespread across Canada, adapting to many different environments.

Bagisarinae Moths: A Rare Find

The Bagisarinae subfamily is a smaller group, with fewer species found in Canada compared to other subfamilies. One species, Bagisara rectifascia, has been recorded in Manitoba.

Condicinae Moths: Diverse Group

The Condicinae subfamily is a diverse group of owlet moths found in various Canadian provinces. These moths contribute to the rich insect biodiversity of the country.

Cuculliinae Moths: Hooded Owlets

The Cuculliinae subfamily is known for its "hooded owlet" moths. Many of these moths have a distinctive hood-like structure over their head when at rest. They are found across Canada, including the northern territories.

Eustrotiinae Moths: Varied Patterns

Moths in the Eustrotiinae subfamily display a variety of wing patterns and colors. They are a common sight in many Canadian habitats, from coast to coast.

Hadeninae Moths: A Large and Varied Group

The Hadeninae subfamily is one of the largest and most varied groups within the Noctuidae family. It includes many common garden moths and agricultural pests. These moths are found in almost every part of Canada, showing their adaptability to different climates.

Heliothinae Moths: Flower Moths

The Heliothinae subfamily is often called "flower moths" because many of their caterpillars feed on the flowers and seeds of plants. Some species, like the Corn Earworm moth (Helicoverpa zea), are well-known. These moths are found across Canada, including the prairies and eastern regions.

Noctuinae Moths: Cutworms and Dart Moths

The Noctuinae subfamily is another very large and important group. It includes many species known as "cutworms" or "dart moths." Cutworms are caterpillars that often cut down young plants at the soil line, which can be a problem for farmers. These moths are incredibly widespread and can be found throughout Canada, even in the Arctic regions.

Plusiinae Moths: Loopers and Gold Moths

The Plusiinae subfamily is known for its "looper" caterpillars, which move by arching their bodies into a loop. Many of these moths also have metallic or iridescent markings on their wings, earning them the nickname "gold moths." They are common in Canada, with species found from British Columbia to Newfoundland.

Psaphidinae Moths: Early Spring Fliers

The Psaphidinae subfamily includes moths that often emerge early in the spring, sometimes even before the snow has fully melted. They are an interesting part of the early season insect life in Canada.

Stiriinae Moths: Specialized Feeders

The Stiriinae subfamily consists of moths that often have specialized feeding habits, with their caterpillars feeding on specific types of plants. These moths are found in various Canadian regions, particularly in the central and western parts.

Ufeinae Moths: Lesser-Known Owlets

The Ufeinae subfamily contains a smaller number of species compared to other owlet moth groups. These moths are found in different parts of Canada, contributing to the overall diversity of Canadian moths.