Very interesting reading on the species info page--I look forward to seeing what the DNA analysis reveals.

Yes, after reviewing the 2 species side-by-side, I could see how the brown in the wings is distinctive. I too was wondering why the wings were curled. I thought this specimen had perhaps just emerged? Also, do you know of any good moth field guides? I only have the Golden guide, plus whatever they deem worthy to add to general natural history guides for an area. Thanks again, Scott

Hi Scott, even with eclosing just moments before you saw the moth, it shouldn't have curled wings like that. When a moth or butterfly ecloses, it pushes fluids into the veins in the wings to expand them to the proper position. For this particular moth, something interfered with it's ability to do that, hence, the wings are not expanded. Poor thing probably can't fly at all.

As for moth guides, I have a few suggestions. Kaufman Field Guide to Insects of North America have 32 pages of good color images of moths and is reasonably priced. Wagner also has books of caterpillars, which have images of moths and butterflies that go with each caterpillar pictures.

Lastly, I have an old copy of Covell's "A Field Guide to Moths of Eastern North America"--however, I have a hard time using it to ID most moths from it b/c it has spread wing images as if pinned (not living). I do better with living images in their more standard position as they would be in nature, where I take my photos.

I believe there are Western versions, where you are, of the books I have for the Eastern US.

Nina

Unfortunately, I don't think that there is a western version of Covell's "A Field Guide to Moths of Eastern Northern America," at least not by a simple google search. But I'll keep trying. The other resources you noted seem quite interesting . . . thanks for the leads! Best wishes, Scott

I picked my books based on suggestions here on BG and also at the Moth Photographer's Group.