Hortalis Moth
Common NameHortalis Moth
Scientific NameSyllepis hortalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America (e.g., eastern US, parts of Canada)
Host PlantsOak (Quercus spp.), Maple (Acer spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are caterpillars that feed on the leaves of host trees before pupating and emerging as adult moths.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive yellowish-golden band across the forewings, sharply contrasting with dark brown or blackish markings, and its small size typical of a crambid moth.
Description
A small moth characterized by its forewings having a prominent yellowish-golden central band bordered by dark brown or blackish patches, with the hindwings being lighter and somewhat translucent.
