Banded Scythris Moth
Common NameBanded Scythris Moth
Scientific NameScythris limbella
FamilyScythrididae
SubfamilyScythridinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Primary Colorsbrown, cream
HabitatDry, open habitats, grasslands, sandy areas, disturbed ground
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, introduced to North America (eastern US and Canada)
Host PlantsLotus corniculatus, Coronilla varia
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of host plants, often creating silk webs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, typically near the ground. Adults are active during the day.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size and the distinctive pattern of two creamy-white bands and an apical spot on the dark brown forewings. The bands are often slightly wavy or broken.
Description
A small moth characterized by dark brown forewings adorned with two prominent, somewhat irregular creamy-white transverse bands and a distinct creamy-white spot near the apex.
