Yellow-bodied Lichen Moth
Common NameYellow-bodied Lichen Moth
Scientific NameAtteva aurea
FamilyYponomeutidae
SubfamilyAttevinae
Wingspan (mm)25
Wing Patternsolid
Primary Colorscream, yellow
HabitatWoodlands, disturbed areas, urban environments, gardens, and roadsides where host plants are present.
Geographic RangeNative to Florida and the Caribbean, but has spread throughout much of the eastern and central United States and parts of Canada.
Host PlantsAilanthus altissima (Tree-of-Heaven)
Flight PeriodMultiple broods from spring to fall (e.g., April to October)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, feeding communally within silken webs on the leaves of host plants. They pupate in cocoons within the web or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include its distinctive bright yellow head and body, and plain cream-colored wings. It is often found in association with its primary host plant, the invasive Tree-of-Heaven.
Description
This small moth features a bright yellow head and thorax, contrasting with its long, narrow, cream-colored forewings that appear unmarked in this form.
