Lead-colored Lichen Moth
Common NameLead-colored Lichen Moth
Scientific NameAtteva aurea
FamilyYponomeutidae
SubfamilyAttevinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsgrey, orange, yellow
HabitatGardens, disturbed areas, woodlands, urban environments
Geographic RangeNative to tropical and subtropical regions; established in parts of North America (southeastern US, extending north), Central America, and the Caribbean.
Host PlantsTree-of-Heaven (Ailanthus altissima)
Flight PeriodMultiple generations, year-round in warm climates, spring to fall in temperate regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious webworms that feed on the leaves of host plants, creating silken webs. They pupate within these webs or in leaf litter, emerging as adults after a relatively short pupal period.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive combination of an orange head and thorax, lead-grey forewings, and a prominent pale yellow spot near the wing tip. Its association with Tree-of-Heaven is also a strong clue.
Description
A small moth characterized by its striking orange head and thorax, and lead-grey forewings adorned with a prominent pale yellow or cream-colored spot near the apex and a darker grey margin.
