University of Alberta Museums Search

A medium size moth (ws= cm) with medium brown forewings marked with both lighter yellow brown and darker brown. The normal lines and spots are partially outlined with fine pale lines. The area along the cubital vein between the orbicular and reniform is white, and the orbicular is frequently outlined and partially filled with pale scales as well. There is a series of short black streaks between the veins in the subterminal area, and thin white subterminal and terminal lines. Fringe dark brown streaked with white at the veins. The hindwings of males are dirty white with dark scales along the veins, a thin dark incomplete terminal line, and a light fringe. Sexes similar but females with darker hindwings. The forewing pattern is rather difficult to describe, but quite distinctive.

In Alberta, probably not a permanent resident, with adults migrating in from further south in late summer. Adults are nocturnal and come to light. The caterpillars are general feeders on a wide variety of broad-leaved plants, including a number of agricultural crops such as potatoes and sugar beets.