Eastern Yucca Moth
Common NameEastern Yucca Moth
Scientific NameTegeticula yuccasella
FamilyProdoxidae
SubfamilyProdoxinae
Wingspan (mm)23
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorswhite, cream, light brown
HabitatArid and semi-arid regions, grasslands, deserts, and areas where Yucca plants grow.
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America, wherever its host plants (Yucca species) are found.
Host PlantsYucca filamentosa, Yucca gloriosa, Yucca smalliana, Yucca flaccida
Flight PeriodLate spring to early summer (May-July), coinciding with Yucca blooming.
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesExhibits an obligate mutualism with Yucca plants; the female moth actively pollinates the yucca flower while laying eggs in the ovary, and the larvae feed on a portion of the developing seeds.
Identification TipsIts small size, pure white coloration, and exclusive association with Yucca plants are key. Look for it flying around Yucca flowers at dusk.
Description
A small, fuzzy moth with pure white wings and a creamy-brown head and thorax, often resting with wings folded tent-like over its body.
