Baccharis Borer
Common NameBaccharis Borer
Scientific NameHellinsia homodactyla
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorstan, cream
HabitatCoastal areas, disturbed sites, open woodlands, and scrublands where Baccharis plants are present.
Geographic RangeNorth America, particularly the southeastern United States and California, corresponding to the distribution of its host plants.
Host PlantsBaccharis spp.
Flight PeriodSpring to fall, typically with multiple broods.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae of the Baccharis Borer are stem borers, feeding and developing within the stems of Baccharis species. Pupation typically occurs on or near the host plant.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its unique T-shaped resting posture and deeply cleft, feather-like wings. Its pale tan coloration with small dark forewing spots, combined with its strong association with Baccharis plants, are reliable identifiers.
Description
A pale tan plume moth characterized by its deeply cleft, feather-like wings held in a distinctive T-shape at rest, with small dark spots on the forewings.
