Clay-colored Agonopterix Moth
Common NameClay-colored Agonopterix Moth
Scientific NameAgonopterix argillacea
FamilyDepressariidae
SubfamilyDepressariinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorstan, brown, grey
HabitatWoodlands, fields, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host PlantsSolidago, Aster, Ambrosia
Flight PeriodOctober to May (overwinters as adult)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis. Adults emerge in the fall, overwinter, and become active again in early spring to lay eggs. Larvae feed on the leaves of host plants.
Identification TipsKey features include its overall clay-colored, mottled appearance with subtle darker discal spots on the forewings, and its characteristic resting posture with wings held flat. Distinguishing it from similar *Agonopterix* species often requires close examination.
Description
This is a small, cryptically colored moth with mottled tan and brown forewings, featuring indistinct darker spots. It typically rests with its wings folded flat over its back, blending in with its surroundings.
