Oak Leaf Miner Moth
Common NameOak Leaf Miner Moth
Scientific NameCameraria nemoris
FamilyGracillariidae
SubfamilyLithocolletinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, parks, areas with oak trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsQuercus (oak species, particularly red oaks)
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the underside of oak leaves. Larvae hatch and create a distinctive blotch-shaped mine within the leaf tissue, consuming the mesophyll. Pupation occurs inside the mine, often within a silken cocoon, before the adult moth emerges.
Identification TipsAdults are identified by their minute size and specific wing patterns. The most common identification is by the characteristic blotch-shaped leaf mine on oak leaves, which appears as a pale yellowish-brown blister-like area, as seen in the image.
Description
A tiny moth with intricately patterned forewings, typically mottled with shades of brown, white, and black, often with metallic or iridescent markings. Hindwings are narrow and fringed.
