Walnut Shoot Moth
Common NameWalnut Shoot Moth
Scientific NameAcrobasis juglandis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, black, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, orchards, and areas with walnut and pecan trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host PlantsWalnut (Juglans spp.), Pecan (Carya illinoinensis)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the new shoots, catkins, and developing nuts of walnut and pecan trees, causing damage. They overwinter as larvae in silken hibernacula.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinct reddish-brown median band on the forewings, contrasting with a paler basal area and darker terminal area. Its presence near walnut or pecan trees is also a strong indicator.
Description
A small moth with forewings mottled in shades of brown, reddish-brown, and black, featuring a prominent dark reddish-brown band across the middle and a lighter, whitish basal area. The head and thorax are pale, often whitish.
