Acrobatic Moth of the Month - The Angel

Olceclostera angelica, otherwise known as The Angel has to be one of the strangest-looking moths occurring in Ontario. It is on the northern edge of its range here in southern Ontario and seems to be uncommon at best. The only place where we have seen this heavenly vision is in the South Walsingham area near Simcoe. The larvae feed on ash trees and lilac.


The moth itself is not too outlandish but it's preferred resting pose most certainly is. Out of all the moths I've seen this is the only one to adopt such an acrobatic pose whilst passing the day. I love those crazy "flanges" on the legs. What does it all mean?


One of the most curious aspects of this delightful creature are those two silvery nodules on either side of the inner abdomen. They must serve some purpose but what could it be? Answers on a postcard please boys and girls. Also, check out those translucent spots on the forewing near the apex...just superb!

This fantastic moth was caught, photographed and released in southern Ontario in mid July this year. It surely fully deserves the rather unique title of - "Acrobatic Moth of the Month".

Oh, I forgot to mention - if you invert the top photo the moth does actually look a bit like an angel...hence the name!