Variable Smudge
Common NameVariable Smudge
Scientific NameChionodes sp.
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, tan, black, white
HabitatWoodlands, grasslands, disturbed areas
Geographic RangeWidespread (specific range varies by species)
Host Plantsvarious herbaceous plants, shrubs
Flight PeriodMay to September
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesUndergoes complete metamorphosis; larvae are often concealed feeders, such as leaf miners or stem borers, pupating in a cocoon.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, slender body, long antennae, and the distinctive dark stripe on the forewing, often with a contrasting lighter line.
Description
A small, slender moth with long antennae and brownish-tan forewings marked by a prominent dark longitudinal stripe and a thin white line below it.
