Little Slender
Common NameLittle Slender
Scientific NameHelcystogramma hystricella
FamilyGelechiidae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsdark grey, black, cream, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southern Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host PlantsLespedeza, Trifolium, various legumes
Flight PeriodMay to September
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are typically leaf-tiers or leaf-folders on their host plants, primarily legumes. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often within the folded leaf.
Identification TipsLook for the slender body, the intricate pattern of dark grey/black with contrasting pale bands and spots on the forewings, and the often tufted appearance of the hindwing fringe. The head and thorax also exhibit similar patterned scales.
Description
A small, slender moth characterized by its mottled dark grey and black forewings adorned with distinct creamy white or pale yellow bands and spots. Its hindwings often appear tufted at rest.
