Juniper Webworm Moth
Common NameJuniper Webworm Moth
Scientific NameDichomeris marginella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyDichomeridinae
Wingspan (mm)16.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, white, cream
HabitatGardens, parks, open woodlands, and areas with juniper plantings
Geographic RangeNative to Europe, introduced and established in North America (e.g., northeastern US, southeastern Canada)
Host PlantsJuniperus communis, Juniperus horizontalis, Juniperus virginiana, other Juniperus species
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are webworms that feed on the needles of juniper plants, creating silken webs. They overwinter as larvae within these webs and pupate in the spring, with adults emerging in late spring to mid-summer.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive brown and white striped pattern on the forewings, particularly the broad white stripe along the leading edge. Often found in association with juniper plants, its primary host.
Description
A small, slender moth with dark brown forewings characterized by a prominent, broad white or cream stripe along the costal margin and another along the inner margin, meeting at the apex.
