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Copper Underwing Moth

Amphipyra pyramidoides

Amphipyra pyramidoides, also known as the Copper Underwing Moth, is a species of moth found in North America. The adult moth has a wingspan of about 4 to 5 cm and is primarily brown with hints of orange and copper. The most striking feature is the bright orange hindwings, which are only visible when the moth is in flight or disturbed. The caterpillar of the Copper Underwing Moth is green and has a remarkable resemblance to a leaf, complete with veins and a midrib.

The Copper Underwing Moth gets its name from the copper-colored patch on the underwing. When the moth is at rest, it will fold its forewings over the hindwings, concealing the orange hindwings and revealing the copper patch, which serves as a warning to predators.

Habitat
Forests, woodlands, and suburban areas
Scientific Name
Amphipyra pyramidoides
Status
Common
Wing Span
38mm to 52mm
General Size
Average
Wing Color
brown
brown
orange
orange
Marking's Color
orange
orange
white
white
Markings Pattern
Waves / Jagged Lines

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

  1. Two jagged black lines across forewing

  2. Oval shaped pale spot on forewing

  3. Bright orange hindwings

  4. Lower part of wing is paler than upper part with streaks of dark color in this area

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.