Poison Ivy Leaf Miner
Common NamePoison Ivy Leaf Miner
Scientific NameStigmella rhoifoliella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Primary Colorsdark brown, bronze
HabitatWoodlands, forest edges, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsToxicodendron radicans, Toxicodendron rydbergii
Flight PeriodApril to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae create a distinctive serpentine leaf mine on host plants like Poison Ivy. Pupation typically occurs in a cocoon outside the mine.
Identification TipsBest identified by its characteristic winding leaf mine on Poison Ivy leaves, which starts narrow and gradually widens, often with a central frass line.
Description
A minute, dark moth with a metallic sheen, often appearing bronze or dark brown, and a prominent hairy head tuft.
