How to Identify Brown Moths in Michigan
Butterflies and moths belong to the Lepidoptera order of insects, which means "scaled wings." If you spot a moth flying near your front door, determining its identify seems impossible if you don't know where to find insect identification resources in Michigan. If you're curious about the brown moth's identity, use available resources online and in your local community.
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Instructions
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Observe and record data about the moth. Note the moth's size, secondary body colors, odd or distinctive markings or patterns and the location of its discovery. If possible, snap a photo of the moth with a digital camera or camera phone. This will come in handy as you try to identify it.
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Go to the official Butterflies and Moths website (see Resources section). This website provides pictures and short summaries of different butterfly and moth species around the world.
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Click "Regional Checklists" and use the drop-menu to enter the species (moth), region (United States), state (Michigan) and the county. Click "Apply" to view pictures of native Michigan moths.
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Visit the reference section of a local Michigan library. To learn more about brown moths, ask a librarian to help you locate insect-related reference materials, including picture books, DVDs and videos. Look at pictures to help with identification.
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Access Discover Life's moth identification website (see Resources section). This resource helps users identify moths by their physical characteristics and the location and time of year of its discovery.
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Go through the list and click the check mark boxes next to items that describe the brown moth. Refer to your notes and any pictures taken for additional information. After you complete this task, click "Search." A list of possible matches will appear in the left-hand column of the screen. Click the map to view moths identified in the Michigan area.
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Tips & Warnings
Some moths venture out during the day, while others fly at dusk or late at night. Capturing photos of the creature during the night can be challenging.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit PhotoObjects.net/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images
