White-banded Pubitelphusa Moth
Common NameWhite-banded Pubitelphusa Moth
Scientific NameTelphusa latifasciella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsblack, white, grey
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeEastern and Central North America
Host Plantsoak, hickory, birch
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are leaf miners or borers in twigs/stems of host trees, pupating in a cocoon, often in leaf litter or soil.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive broad white band on the dark forewings, its small size, and typical Gelechiidae resting posture with wings folded flat over the back.
Description
A small moth characterized by its dark grey to black forewings, which are prominently marked with a broad, irregular white band across the middle, and mottled grey hindwings.
