Chenopodium Scythris Moth
Common NameChenopodium Scythris Moth
Scientific NameScythris chenopodiella
FamilyScythrididae
SubfamilyScythridinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorslight brown, dark brown, cream
HabitatDry open areas, grasslands, waste ground, coastal areas
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host PlantsChenopodium album, Chenopodium spp.
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed on the leaves of Chenopodium species, often creating a silken web on the host plant. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its small size, slender body, and narrow, pointed forewings with a characteristic mottled brown and cream pattern. Often found resting with wings folded tightly over the body, blending in with its surroundings, particularly near its Chenopodium host plants.
Description
A small, slender moth with narrow, pointed wings. The forewings are light brown to cream, mottled with irregular dark brown streaks and spots, providing excellent camouflage.
