Sweetgum Leafroller Moth
Common NameSweetgum Leafroller Moth
Scientific NameSparganothis reticulatana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, reddish-brown
HabitatForests, woodlands, orchards, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeNorth America
Host Plantssweetgum, strawberry, apple, oak, maple, willow
Flight PeriodMay to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leafrollers, feeding within rolled leaves or between leaves spun together. They pupate inside the rolled leaf or in the soil, with multiple generations occurring annually.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive mottled and reticulated wing pattern with wavy bands, and its characteristic roof-like wing posture at rest. Distinguishing it from other similar Tortricidae often requires close examination.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled brown, white, and reddish-brown patterns on its forewings, often forming wavy bands. It rests with its wings held in a roof-like manner over its body.
