Black-tipped Rudenia Moth
Common NameBlack-tipped Rudenia Moth
Scientific NameRudenia leguminana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)11
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorswhite, dark brown, black, grey
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, areas with host legume trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Ontario and Quebec south to Florida, west to Texas and Kansas)
Host PlantsGleditsia triacanthos, Robinia pseudoacacia
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the seed pods, seeds, or twigs of host legume trees. Pupation typically occurs within the host plant material or in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, stout body, and distinctive mottled white and dark brown/black forewing pattern, especially the darker 'tip' or apex. Often found near Honey Locust or Black Locust trees.
Description
A small, stout-bodied moth with forewings displaying a mottled pattern of white, dark brown, and black, often with a darker apex, providing cryptic camouflage.
