Lesser Maple Leafroller
Common NameLesser Maple Leafroller
Scientific NameAcleris chalybeana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, suburban areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsmaple (Acer spp.), birch (Betula spp.), oak (Quercus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to July (first generation), August to October (second generation)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae roll and tie leaves of host plants, feeding within the protection of the rolled leaf. Pupation occurs within the rolled leaf or in leaf litter, and the species typically has two generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size and the distinctive mottled grey-brown forewings with darker, irregular markings, particularly a dark patch near the costa and a darker median band, which give it a triangular appearance when at rest.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, often featuring irregular dark bands and patches that aid in camouflage against bark or lichen.
