Our insect of the week for December 8, 2025 is the turbulent phosphila, Phosphila turbulenta [LEPIDOPTERA: Noctuidae]. This moth is found throughout eastern and central North America (including central Illinois). It was originally described by the German entomologist Jacob Hübner in 1818 (the same year Illinois became a state).

The common and specific name may reflect that the larvae cluster together and move around when disturbed.

This species is often found in woodlands where the host plant, catbrier/ greenbrier (Smilax sp.) is found. They seem to be highly associated with this plant. Adults fly from May through October in central Illinois and are attracted to lights at night.

The adult moth in this photo was collected by Frank Hitchell in Peoria County, Illinois.