Common Hebe plume moth
Common NameCommon Hebe plume moth
Scientific NameStenoptilia oreites
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsbrown, white, reddish-brown
HabitatGardens, shrublands, open areas where Hebe species grow
Geographic RangeNew Zealand
Host PlantsHebe species, Veronica species
Flight PeriodOctober to May (in New Zealand)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed internally on the flower buds and young shoots of Hebe plants, pupating either on the plant or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its deeply divided, plume-like wings, the specific mottled brown and white pattern with reddish accents, and its presence in New Zealand, often near Hebe plants.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its deeply cleft, feather-like wings. The forewings display a mottled pattern of browns, whites, and reddish-browns, with distinct darker bands.
