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Plain plume moth

Plain plume moth

Hellinsia homodactylus

A species of Hellinsia

The plain plume moth (Hellinsia homodactylus) is an interesting moth that has a colorization that goes from being stark-white to brownish on various points of its body. They are pretty hard to miss, which makes them brilliant captures for those who love photography of insects. The "plume" part of their name groups them with similar moths that can mostly be identified with a t-shaped resting pose.

General Info About Plain plume moth
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Attributes of Plain plume moth
Colors
Brown
Gray
White
Habitat
outdoors
Adult Food Sources
Floral nectar, aphid honeydew, plant sap, flower pollen, water with dissolved sugars
Larva Food Source
Leaves of host plants, plant tissues, stems, flowers, plant shoots
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Plain plume moth is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Plain plume moth
It is found in North America.
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Distribution Area of Plain plume moth
North America
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Appearance of Plain plume moth
The wingspan is 2 - 2.5 cm. The head is white and the palpi and antennae are whitish. The thorax and abdomen are also white, as are the legs, although these are slightly tinged with cinereous. The forewings are white, very slightly dusted on the costa with brownish scales. The hindwings and fringes are pure white, with a silky lustre. In some specimens the brownish spots are absent. The larvae are pale yellowish green. Pupation takes place in a light pea green pupa, which turns white before the adult emerges.
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How to Identify Plain plume moth?

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Life Cycle of Plain plume moth
Egg The embryonic stage of plain plume moth starts with the egg, which is usually laid on host plants. The eggs are typically small, spherical, and may have a protective coating to deter predators or prevent desiccation.
Larva Upon hatching, the larva of plain plume moth emerges as a caterpillar, specialized for feeding and growth. Its primary objective is to accumulate energy reserves. The larva molts several times, significantly increasing in size and sometimes changing colors or patterns.
Pupal After reaching a sufficient size, the larva of plain plume moth forms a pupa. During this stage, the insect is immobile and undergoes profound transformation. Enclosed within a protective chrysalis, the body structures of the future adult are formed.
Adult Emerging from the pupa, the adult plain plume moth’s development is marked by the presence of wings and functional reproductive organs. The body is fully formed and hardened, and the adult is mobile, focusing on reproduction and, if applicable, feeding.
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Predators of Adult Plain plume moth
Birds, bats, spiders
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Interesting Facts About Plain plume moth
Despite its delicate appearance, plain plume moth can orient itself by the stars, a rare trait for insects.
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Scientific Classification of Plain plume moth
Tips for Finding Plain plume moth
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Youth Habitat of Plain plume moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Adult Habitat of Plain plume moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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How Can You Attract Plain plume moth
Adult plain plume moth may be attracted to light sources at night or sweet substances such as fermented fruit baits or sugar solutions that emulate nectar.
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Habitat Preferences of Plain plume moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of plain plume moth are typically laid on host plants found in meadows or fields, where sufficient foliage provides food and shelter. Once hatched, the caterpillars can be found feeding on the host plant leaves, often at night to avoid predators. Pupation generally takes place in a cocoon among debris or soil near the host plant. Adult plain plume moth prefer open spaces where they can easily locate mates and lay eggs, and they are often seen flying near their host plants at dusk.
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How and Where Can You Find Plain plume moth at Different Life Stages
Larva Plain plume moth larvae can often be found on their host plants, where they feed on leaves. Look on the host plants, check both sides of the leaves, and inspect the stems for signs of feeding or for the larvae themselves.
Pupal Plain plume moth pupae may be found attached to leaves or stems, or within the litter near the host plant. They can be located by carefully searching the ground or the plant where the larvae were found.
Adult Adult plain plume moth are most easily found by using a light trap at night, which attracts them due to their nocturnal nature. Alternatively, setting out a bait of sweet solutions or fruit can lure them during dusk or dawn. Careful observation of flowers, especially during the evening, can also result in sightings of plain plume moth.
Are Plain plume moth harmful?
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