Common Case Moth
Common NameCommon Case Moth
Scientific NameThyridopteryx ephemeraeformis
FamilyPsychidae
SubfamilyOiketicinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsdark brown, tan
HabitatForests, woodlands, suburban areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantsarborvitae, juniper, pine, spruce, maple, elm, oak
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae construct and carry a silken case covered with plant debris. Females are wingless and remain inside their larval case, laying eggs within it after mating.
Identification TipsMales are identified by their dark wings, furry body, and feathery antennae. The presence of characteristic bag-like larval cases on host plants is a strong indicator.
Description
A small, robust moth with a very furry, tan-brown body and dark, somewhat translucent brown wings. Males possess prominent, feathery antennae.
