Painted Lichen Moth: A Tiny Insect with a Big Personality

Lichen moths are a diverse group of small moths whose caterpillars feed on lichens. At an inch long, they may not be as large as other moths like the luna or cecropia moth, but their bright coloration makes them stand out. The painted lichen moth is one such species that is widely distributed in North America and can be found east of the Rocky Mountains.

According to Timothey McCabe, curator of entomology at the New York State Museum, lichen moths are nocturnal, but a few species like the painted lichen moth are day-flying. This group tends to have bright colors with orange, red, and black markings. However, getting to know lichen moths is challenging because they are small and most are nocturnal and dull-colored.

Their caterpillars are even smaller and often blend in with the lichens they feed on. McCabe studies lichen moths by attracting adult moths to a light, capturing them, and keeping them until they lay eggs. He then rears the caterpillars that come out of those eggs, offering them different foods to see their preferences.

Newly hatched lichen moth caterpillars are around 1 millimeter long, making them difficult to spot without clues. McCabe recommends using a microscope or hand lens to observe their feeding and behavior closely, as it may surprise you.