Explanation of Names
GLABELLA: from the Latin "glaber" (smooth, bald); perhaps a reference to the forewing, which may appear shiny and smooth under certain lighting conditions
Numbers
one of four species in the genus (and tribe) in North America
Identification
Adult: forewing varies from medium to dark gray (and shiny under certain light) with orbicular and reniform spots reduced to dark dots; PM line curved, with large convex sinus below reniform spot; ST line straight, composed of dark gray dots or streaks at the veins, and forming sharp boundary between gray forewing and contrasting light gray or pale yellowish terminal area
hindwing light gray, darkening toward outer margin; antennae simple; sexes alike
Range
New Brunswick to Florida, west to Utah, north to British Columbia
Habitat
dry deciduous woods; wooded areas along river valleys; western coniferous forests (?); adults are nocturnal and attracted to light
Season
adults fly from July to September
Food
larvae feed on leaves of Balsam Poplar (Populus balsamifera) and, in the west, Douglas-fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii)
Life Cycle
one generation per year; probably overwinters as an egg
See Also
Capis curvata forewing is darker, browner, and ST line curves outward to apex (
compare images of both species)
Contributed by
Robin McLeod on 23 March, 2006 - 1:16am
Additional contributions by
BlockyLast updated 20 January, 2022 - 3:50am