Banded Sunflower Moth
Common NameBanded Sunflower Moth
Scientific NameCochylis hospes
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyCochylinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsyellowish-tan, brown, dark brown
HabitatSunflower fields, prairies, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeCentral and Western North America
Host PlantsHelianthus annuus, Helianthus spp.
Flight PeriodJune to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into sunflower heads and feed on developing seeds; pupation occurs in the soil, and there are typically two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinct dark brown median band on the forewings, and its strong association with sunflower plants.
Description
A small moth with pale yellowish-tan forewings marked by a prominent, irregular dark brown band across the middle and scattered darker flecks.
