Ottawa (Dunrobin), ON Canada

29 May 2002   10:23PM

With its plain dark gray forewings, Notodonta simplaria is one species that completely fulfills the expectations of anyone who thinks of moths as drab and gray.  A closer examination, however, reveals specific features within its plain appearance that allow it to be distinguished from other similar moths.  Although the postmedial line is indistinct except at the inner margin, the antemedial line is much clearer, more scalloped than zigzag.  The reniform spot is outlined in white.  The gray of the subterminal area is somewhat mottled with shades of paler gray, and may in some specimens show a pale subterminal line.  At rest, this moth holds its wings close to the body in the shape of a peaked roof.

According to Handfield (1999), the larvae feed on poplar and willow.

I have photographed this species in 2002, on 28 and 29 May.