Ufeus plicatus facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Ufeus plicatus |
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Ufeus
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U. plicatus
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| Ufeus plicatus Grote, 1878
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Ufeus plicatus is a type of moth that belongs to a group called Noctuidae, also known as owlet moths. These moths are found in parts of North America. They are special because they often live near large Poplar trees, especially a kind called eastern cottonwood.
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About the Ufeus Plicatus Moth
Where This Moth Lives
This moth has been seen in several places. These include states like Illinois, Iowa, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. It also lives in southern Quebec in Canada. Scientists think it might be found across a much larger area in northeastern North America.
Its Favorite Home
The Ufeus plicatus moth loves to live near big Poplar trees. It especially likes the eastern cottonwood tree (Populus deltoides). These trees often grow in wet areas, like along rivers. The moths prefer trees that have lots of loose, peeling bark near the bottom. This loose bark gives them a great place to hide.
How Big It Is
The front wings of the male Ufeus plicatus moth are usually about 16 to 19 millimeters long. For female moths, their front wings are a bit longer, measuring 17 to 20 millimeters.
Life Cycle
When Eggs Are Laid
Female moths lay their eggs in the spring. After the eggs hatch, the young moths grow and change.
Adult Moth Activity
Adult moths usually appear in late spring and early summer. However, they often take a long rest during the hot summer months. This resting period is called aestivation. They become active again when fall arrives.
You can find these adult moths in almost any month except June. But they are most often seen in October and November (fall) and in March and April (spring). It seems they are not very attracted to lights. This makes them hard to spot, even in places where they are known to live.
What It Eats
The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, eat the leaves of the eastern cottonwood tree (Populus deltoides). This is the same tree where the adult moths like to live.
Where They Hide
During the day, the larvae hide under the loose strips of bark on their host trees. The adult moths likely hide there too during the day. They also use these bark strips as a safe place to spend the winter months.
