Palmerworm Moth
Common NamePalmerworm Moth
Scientific NameDichomeris ligulella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyDichomeridinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, dark brown
HabitatWoodlands, orchards, gardens, areas with deciduous trees and shrubs
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from Canada to Florida and west to Texas
Host Plantsapple, oak, maple, cherry, birch, willow, hawthorn
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple generations)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae, known as palmerworms, feed on the leaves of a wide variety of deciduous trees and shrubs, often tying leaves together with silk. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, mottled brown and grey forewings, and notably, the prominent, upturned, brush-like labial palps that give its head a distinctive snout-like appearance.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown and grey forewings that give it excellent camouflage. It often rests with its wings folded flat over its body.
