Fitch's Lithocolletid Moth
Common NameFitch's Lithocolletid Moth
Scientific NamePhyllonorycter fitchella
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscopper, white, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsQuercus alba, Quercus rubra, Quercus palustris
Flight PeriodMay to June, July to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating characteristic tentiform mines on the underside of oak leaves. Pupation occurs within the leaf mine.
Identification TipsKey features include its minute size, the specific pattern of silvery-white markings on coppery-brown forewings, and the distinctive white head tuft. Its association with oak trees as host plants is also a strong indicator.
Description
A very small moth with coppery-brown forewings featuring several distinct silvery-white transverse bands and streaks, often edged with black scales. It possesses a prominent white tuft of scales on its head.
