Everlasting Tebenna Moth
Common NameEverlasting Tebenna Moth
Scientific NameTebenna gnaphaliella
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)9.5
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, white, silver
HabitatOpen fields, meadows, disturbed areas, woodland edges, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America (from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas)
Host PlantsGnaphalium obtusifolium, Antennaria plantaginifolia, Pseudognaphalium obtusifolium
Flight PeriodMay to October
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners or feed within spun leaves of their host plants, primarily everlasting species. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often on the host plant.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, distinctive mottled and iridescent wing pattern, and its association with *Gnaphalium* and *Antennaria* plants. It is often active during the day.
Description
A small, dark moth with intricately mottled wings, appearing speckled with iridescent white or silver scales over a dark brown to black background. It often rests with a somewhat humped posture due to raised scales on its thorax.
