Orange-dotted Dichomeris Moth
Common NameOrange-dotted Dichomeris Moth
Scientific NameDichomeris ligulella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorsdark brown, reddish-orange
HabitatWoodlands, forests, shrublands
Geographic RangeEastern North America (Canada to Florida, west to Texas)
Host Plantsoak, blueberry, huckleberry, willow
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf-tiers, feeding on the foliage of various woody plants. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often within the tied leaves, and the species may have multiple broods per year.
Identification TipsLook for the contrasting reddish-orange head and upper thorax against the otherwise dark, mottled forewings. The small size and typical resting posture with wings folded flat are also helpful identifiers.
Description
A small, dark brown moth with a distinctive reddish-orange head and thorax. Its forewings are mottled with subtle lighter spots and streaks, providing cryptic camouflage.
