Crowned Bucculatrix Moth
Common NameCrowned Bucculatrix Moth
Scientific NameBucculatrix coronatella
FamilyBucculatricidae
SubfamilyNot applicable
Wingspan (mm)6
Primary Colorstan, cream, brown, black
HabitatOpen woodlands, meadows, and disturbed areas where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Quebec and Ontario south to Florida and west to Texas
Host PlantsSymphyotrichum novae-angliae, Symphyotrichum
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are initially leaf miners on *Symphyotrichum* species, then emerge to feed externally on the leaves. Pupation occurs in a distinctive white, ribbed cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size (6-7mm wingspan), the distinctive raised black scale tuft on the forewing, and the mottled tan and brown wing pattern.
Description
A very small, slender moth with tan to cream-colored forewings mottled with light brown and dark brown markings, notably featuring a raised tuft of black scales mid-wing and a dark spot near the wing tip.
