Elder Shoot Borer Moth
Common NameElder Shoot Borer Moth
Scientific NameAchatia distincta
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyHadeninae
Wingspan (mm)32
Primary Colorsreddish-brown, orange, grey
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, riparian areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Nova Scotia south to Florida and west to Texas and Manitoba
Host PlantsElder (Sambucus spp.)
Flight PeriodMarch to May
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae of the Elder Shoot Borer Moth are borers, feeding internally within the shoots and stems of elderberry plants. Adults emerge in early spring.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive reddish-brown and orange forewing pattern with extensive grey mottling, and the prominent orange tufts on the head and thorax. Its early spring flight period and association with elderberry are also key indicators.
Description
This moth has forewings with a striking pattern of deep reddish-brown and orange patches, heavily mottled with greyish-white scales. Its head and thorax feature prominent tufts of bright orange and reddish-brown scales.
