Freeman's Antispila Moth
Common NameFreeman's Antispila Moth
Scientific NameAntispila freemani
FamilyHeliozelidae
Wingspan (mm)5
Primary Colorsdark brown, purple, blue, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, and areas where dogwood host plants are present.
Geographic RangeEastern North America (e.g., Ontario, Quebec, New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania)
Host PlantsCornus spp. (dogwood)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating distinctive blotch mines on the leaves of various dogwood (Cornus) species. Pupation typically occurs in a flattened, oval cocoon, which is often dropped to the ground.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its very small size, the iridescent dark forewings with two distinct white metallic fasciae, and its specific association with dogwood host plants. The feathery anal tuft is also a notable characteristic.
Description
A minute moth characterized by its dark, iridescent forewings that display striking purple and blue reflections, accented by two prominent white metallic bands. The hindwings are dark and heavily fringed.
