Partridge Pea Moth
Common NamePartridge Pea Moth
Scientific NameStegasta variana
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Primary Colorsblack, orange, white
HabitatOpen woodlands, fields, disturbed areas, and prairies where host plants grow
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States (e.g., Florida, Georgia, Texas) and parts of the Caribbean
Host PlantsChamaecrista fasciculata, Chamaecrista nictitans
Flight PeriodMay to October (multiple broods)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders, acting as leaf miners or boring into the stems and pods of *Chamaecrista* species. Pupation typically occurs in a cocoon in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size and the striking pattern of two broad orange-yellow bands and white spots on a dark background on the forewings. Often found resting on tree bark or near its legume host plants.
Description
A small, dark moth with black forewings featuring two prominent orange-yellow bands and several distinct white spots, providing effective camouflage against tree bark.
