Skip to main content

Cloaked Marvel Moth

Chytonix palliatricula

Chytonix palliatricula, commonly known as the Cloaked Marvel Moth, is a species found throughout the eastern United States. It is a medium-sized moth with a wingspan of about 1.5 inches. Its forewings are brownish-gray and marked with a distinct silver stripe that curves and swirls toward the wingtip. The species has two distinct color morphs: the darker morph has a small white spot on the inner center of the forewings, while the light morph has bigger white color patches on its forewings.

The Cloaked Marvel Moth is known for its unique resting position, in which it holds its forewings in a tent-like fashion over its body, resembling a cloak. A fun fact about this species is that its scientific name, Chytonix palliatricula, translates to “little mop,” referring to the mop-like appearance of the moth’s antennae. The species is also sometimes referred to as the “Tent Caterpillar Moth” due to its similar appearance to the Eastern Tent Caterpillar. However, it is important to note that the Cloaked Marvel Moth is not a pest species and does not cause damage to trees or other plants.

Habitat
Deciduous and mixed forests, as well as wooded areas near rivers and streams
Scientific Name
Chytonix palliatricula
Wing Span
28mm to 33mm
General Size
Small
Wing Color
brown
brown
white
white
Marking's Color
brown
brown
white
white
Markings Pattern
Waves / Jagged Lines
Color Patches

Characteristics describe the physical and behavioral traits that distinguish a species from others. This section helps readers identify and differentiate between similar species, aiding in species identification and reducing the chance of misidentification.

Identifying Characteristics

Light Morph

  1. Wings mottled with brown

  2. 2. Light morph has bigger white color patches on forewings

Identifying Characteristics

Dark Morph

  1. Wings mottled with brown

  2. Darker morph has small white spot on the inner center of the forewings

The chart displays the months of the year on the x-axis and observations of a particular species on the y-axis, indicating the time of year when each species is most commonly observed. This chart can assist moth watchers and researchers in predicting the best times and locations to observe specific moth species.

A range map is a visual representation of a species' geographical distribution, and it helps naturalists and field researchers quickly determine if a species is likely to be found in a given area, aiding in identification, conservation, and habitat management efforts.