Sage Plume Moth
Common NameSage Plume Moth
Scientific NameStenoptilia coloradensis
FamilyPterophoridae
SubfamilyPterophorinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, orange
HabitatSagebrush steppes, dry grasslands, open woodlands
Geographic RangeWestern North America (e.g., Colorado, Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, California)
Host PlantsArtemisia tridentata, Artemisia ludoviciana, Artemisia nova
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on sagebrush plants. Larvae bore into the stems or feed on the leaves and flowers of various *Artemisia* species. Pupation occurs on the host plant.
Identification TipsLook for its characteristic T-shaped resting posture and deeply cleft, feathery wings. The mottled brown and tan coloration helps it blend in with sagebrush, its primary host plant.
Description
A small, slender moth with deeply cleft wings held out horizontally in a distinctive T-shape when at rest. Its coloration is mottled brown, tan, and orange, providing excellent camouflage against its sagebrush host plants.
