Biston betularia
(Linnaeus, 1758)
Peppered Moth
Sort #: 1892 | P3 #: 911062 | MPG #: 6640 | PFG Page #: 220
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Larval substrate: Various trees and shrubs, incl. Alnus (Alder), Betula (Birch), Prunus (Cherry), Cornus (Dogwood), Ulmus (Elm), Larix laricina (American Larch, Tamarack), Quercus rubra (Red Oak), Salix (Willow)
Phenology: Adult: 5/01 to 9/28 (385 records)
Comment: Based, on barcoding data, there may be two separate species involved here, a native North American one and one which occurs on both sides of the Atlantic
Status in MA (automated assessment): Widespread, very common
Status in N. America: Holarctic
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1880
Last Year Reported: 2023
Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampden, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 583