Clover Head Caterpillar Moth
Common NameClover Head Caterpillar Moth
Scientific NameGrapholita interstinctana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, cream
HabitatMeadows, fields, pastures, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host Plantsclover, alfalfa, sweet clover
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the flower heads of various clover and legume species, feeding on the seeds. They overwinter as mature larvae or pupae in cocoons.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, dark brown forewings with distinctive, irregular pale bands, and its association with clover fields. The pale head and prominent greenish eyes are also key features.
Description
A small, dark brown moth with irregular, creamy-white bands across the forewings, a pale head, and greenish eyes.
