Goldenrod Pelochrista Moth
Common NameGoldenrod Pelochrista Moth
Scientific NamePelochrista solidaginis
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorstan, light brown, cream
HabitatMeadows, fields, roadsides, and other open areas where goldenrod grows
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsgoldenrod (Solidago spp.)
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are stem borers, feeding and developing inside the stems of goldenrod plants. Pupation typically occurs within the stem or in the soil.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, streaked light brown forewings, and its strong association with goldenrod plants, where its larvae bore into the stems.
Description
A small, slender moth with light brown to tan forewings marked with darker brown, wavy streaks and bands, giving it a somewhat mottled appearance.
