kids encyclopedia robot

Obtuse yellow moth facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts
Quick facts for kids
Obtuse yellow moth
Azenia obtusa.jpg
Scientific classification
Synonyms
  • Stiriodes obtusa Herrich-Schõffer, 1854
  • Metoponia obtusa

The obtuse yellow moth (scientific name: Azenia obtusa) is a type of moth. It belongs to a large family of moths called Noctuidae. A scientist named Gottlieb August Wilhelm Herrich-Schäffer first described this species in 1854.

What Does the Obtuse Yellow Moth Look Like?

The obtuse yellow moth is quite small. Its wingspan is usually between 18 and 25 millimeters. That's about the length of a small coin.

Its front wings, called forewings, are a light yellow color. They have three large spots that are violet-brown. These spots are found along the edge of the wing near the body. Sometimes, there are also two smaller violet-brown spots.

The back wings, called hindwings, are a lighter yellow. They might have one to three faint, darker lines across them.

When Can You See Them?

Adult obtuse yellow moths are usually active during the summer months. You can often see them flying from June through August.

Where Does This Moth Live?

The obtuse yellow moth lives in North America. You can find it in many different places across the continent.

Its home range stretches from southern Ontario in Canada and New York in the United States. It goes all the way south to Florida. To the west, you can find it in Texas and Missouri.

What Do Obtuse Yellow Moths Eat?

The young moths, which are called larvae or caterpillars, have a specific diet. They like to feed on a plant known as Ambrosia trifida. This plant is also commonly called giant ragweed.

kids search engine
Obtuse yellow moth Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.