Ailanthus Webworm Moth
Common NameAilanthus Webworm Moth
Scientific NameAtteva aurea
FamilyAttevidae
Wingspan (mm)30
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsorange, white, dark blue
HabitatDisturbed areas, urban environments, roadsides, open woodlands, areas with Tree of Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
Geographic RangeNative to tropical Asia, widely introduced and established in North America (eastern and central US, parts of Canada)
Host PlantsAilanthus altissima (Tree of Heaven)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious webworms, feeding within silken webs on the leaves of their host plants. They pupate in cocoons, often in leaf litter or soil, and have multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its unmistakable bright orange wings with white and dark blue/black spots. Its elongated body and association with its primary host plant, Tree of Heaven, are also key identifiers.
Description
A small, brightly colored moth with an elongated body and wings. Its wings are predominantly orange with striking white and dark blue/black spots arranged in a somewhat geometric, intricate pattern.
