If you see a moth in an “airplane” or “T” perching posture, you can be certain it is a type of plume moth. In this posture the deeply notched forewings are rolled around the hindwing plumes, which are divided into three linear parts, each with long scale fringes. We believe this moth may be in the genus Emmelina, and perhaps the Morning-glory Plume Moth (Emmelina monodactyla), a common and widespread species, so-called for the caterpillars’ penchant for feeding on plants in the morning-glory family (Convolvulaceae). They often come to lights and can be seen resting on the sides of buildings in the morning.
Size: Wingspan 1.3-4.1 cm
Photo by: Glenn Marangelo on 3/29/22 in Missoula, MT