Walnut Leaf Miner Moth
Common NameWalnut Leaf Miner Moth
Scientific NameStigmella juglandifoliella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)3
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorsdark brown, black, metallic
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, orchards, and gardens where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host PlantsJuglans nigra (black walnut), Juglans cinerea (butternut), other Juglans species
Flight PeriodMay to August (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on the underside of walnut leaves. The larvae create a distinctive, long, winding serpentine mine within the leaf tissue, which gradually widens as the larva grows. Pupation occurs outside the mine, typically in a silken cocoon on the ground or bark.
Identification TipsAdult moths are tiny and require microscopic examination for species identification. The most reliable field identification is by the characteristic serpentine leaf mine found on walnut (Juglans) leaves.
Description
A minute, dark brownish-black moth with a metallic sheen, often featuring a pale, silvery fascia across the forewing.
