miscellaneous black and white moths

Eight-spotted Forester moth on cleome flowers. This is a common day-flying moth, typically found from April through July. Eight-spotted Foresters are very fond of flowers, and they often nectar alongside butterflies.

Eight-spotted Forester moths have red "leg-warmers" (a feature which distinguishes them from the look-alike White-spotted Sable moth, not shown).

White-striped Black Moth. These are common day-flying moths, frequently found in woodlands. They fly from late April through August.

Grapevine Epimenis moth. These woodland moths fly for only a few weeks in spring (typically April and early May). They can be quite numerous for a few weeks, but then they disappear. This species is common at Sugarcreek Reserve in Bellbrook, and also at Cox Arboretum and Germantown MetroPark. 

Grape Leaffolder moth. These moths are common in wooded areas from May through early September. During the day, they typically perch underneath leaves where they can be difficult to see. I have found several individuals at my UV lights.

This photo shows the underside of a Grape Leaffolder moth. Note that there is another very similar species, the White-headed Grape Leaffolder (below), which is slightly smaller and has a broken white patch on its abdomen. Grape Leaffolders usually have a solid white patch or a slight break on Segment 3, like the individual at left. It is useful to get a measurement and a look at the abdomen if you want a definite ID on this species.

This moth is a White-headed Grape Leaffolder.  Notice that it has a black-and-white striped patch on its abdomen (as opposed to the nearly solid white patch above). 

This is the top side of a White-headed Grape Leaffolder (the same individual as shown above). This species is less common than the Grape Leaffolder. 

Spotted Thyris Moth. This day-flying moth is somewhat uncommon in our area. I found this individual nectaring on a flower at Cedar Bog on July 18, 2021. 

This Grapevine Epimenis moth was staring curiously at my camera, while puddling at damp soil. I often see these moths puddling along forest paths. 

Another White-headed Grape Leaffolder (verified by the markings on its abdomen). This individual shows a white mark on its head, but the white mark is not definitive. You need a view of the abdomen and a measurement to be sure. 

Another White-headed Grape Leaffolder, showing the striped abdomen. I have found a few of these moths at my lights, from June through August.