Black Witch Moth

Natural Habitat

Tropical and subtropical forests, suburban areas, and often found resting in dark, sheltered areas like porches or eaves.

Diet & Feeding

Adults feed on overripe fruit and tree sap; larvae (caterpillars) feed on various legumes including acacia and ebony trees.

Behavior Patterns

They are primarily nocturnal and are attracted to artificial lights; they exhibit a characteristic triangular shape when resting flat against surfaces.

Risks & Benefits

Harmless to humans; in some cultures, they are considered symbols of good or bad luck (associated with death in Mexican/Caribbean folklore, but wealth in others).

Identified on: 6/26/2026