Oxycilla mitographa (Grote, 1873)
A noctuid moth
NatureServe Global Rank: G4
Virginia State Rank: SH
VA DGIF Tier: IV
Federal Legal Status: None
Virginia Legal Status: None
Description: Oxycilla mitographa has a tan or pale-brown base color with distinct white lines crossing the front wing. The outer line starts slightly outside the halfway point of the trailing edge of the forewing, and runs diagonally towards the apex before making a right-angle turn towards the leading edge. The inner line follows this pattern but has a sharper turn towards the body, then back on the original direction and again back to the body right at the leading edge, giving it a stepped appearance near the leading edge of the front wing. Both white lines are paralleled by a reddish brown line on the sides that face each other. There is a small reniform and subreniform spot in between the lines as well. The hind wing is a solid brownish gray tone.
Similar species: Oxycilla malaca has a pattern that follows the same general lay-out, but is more colorful with some purple hues and the lines do not make sharp turns or form angles and are rounded instead, giving a sinuous look.
North American Range: It ranges from Virginia, Ohio and Arkansas to Louisiana and Florida.
VA Observations by Locality: Giles | Arlington
Flight season and broods: Presently unknown
Habitat and Food Plants: Presently unclear
Behavior and Ecology: Presently unknown
Population trend and potential threats: Population trends and threats are undetermined at this time.
Management practices: Populations should be monitored and habitats preserved.
References: Moth Photographers Group at the Mississippi Entomological Museum at Mississippi State University. Web application at: http://mothphotographersgroup.msstate.edu/large_map.php?hodges=8408 Accessed: 18Apr2013