Locust Leafroller Moth
Common NameLocust Leafroller Moth
Scientific NameAncylis platanana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12.5
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, suburban areas, and open fields where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Ontario and Quebec south to Florida and west to Texas.
Host PlantsBlack Locust (*Robinia pseudoacacia*), Honey Locust (*Gleditsia triacanthos*)
Flight PeriodApril to September (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leafrollers, feeding within folded or rolled leaves of their host trees. They pupate either within the rolled leaf or in leaf litter on the ground.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinct reddish-brown basal area of the forewing, and the mottled dark brown and white pattern on the rest of the wing. Its association with locust trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
A small moth characterized by forewings that are reddish-brown at the base, transitioning to a mottled pattern of dark brown, black, and white speckling towards the outer margin, providing excellent camouflage.
