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White Plume Moth

White Plume Moth

Pterophorus pentadactyla

A species of Pterophorus, Also known as White plume

The white plume moth is a distinctive insect with a wingspan of 26 to 34 mm (1.0 to 1.3 in). The adult is pure white, the wings being divided into five slender feather-like plumes, two forming part of the forewing and three part of the hind wing. The insect is nocturnal, emerging at dusk, and is on the wing during June and July. The larvae are green, with a yellow dorsal stripe and tufts of pale hairs.

General Info About White Plume Moth
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Attributes of White Plume Moth
Colors
White
Habitat
This moth is found over much of Europe and the Middle East, as far east as Iran, also North Africa. In Britain, it is common in England and Wales but more local in southern Scotland and in the coastal parts of western, southern and eastern Ireland. It is typically found in rough grassland, on road verges and in gardens. The larva feeds on leaves and flowers of field bindweed, hedge bindweed and other members of the family Convolvulaceae. It hibernates, overwintering as a small larva.
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar from plants such as lavandula (lavender), buddleja (butterfly bush), syringa (lilac), lonicera (honeysuckle), phlox (phlox)
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
Not reported
Borer
Not reported
Pollinator
Not reported
Pest-Eating Predatory
Not reported
Phytophagous
Not reported
Predatory
Not reported
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of White Plume Moth
Common
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Predators of White Plume Moth Larvae
Insectivorous birds, arachnids, wasps (parasitoid), ants
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Predators of Adult White Plume Moth
Bats, birds, spiders
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Interesting Facts About White Plume Moth
The white Plume Moth has the unique ability to camouflage, disguising as dried grass with its wings that finely split into five plume-like sections.
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Scientific Classification of White Plume Moth
Tips for Finding White Plume Moth
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Youth Habitat of White Plume Moth
Forests and Woodlands, Grasslands and Prairies, Urban and Suburban Areas, Agricultural and Cultivated Areas
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Habitat Preferences of White Plume Moth Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of white Plume Moth are typically deposited on host plant foliage, where they are shielded from predators. Caterpillars can be found on or near the host plants, feeding on leaves. Pupae may be situated close to the ground in plant debris or soil, camouflaged for protection during their transition into adulthood. Adults prefer open areas where they can feed on nectar and are often spotted around flowers, meadows, or gardens at dusk when they are most active. To find these stages, search respective host plants for eggs and caterpillars, inspect nearby ground cover for pupae, and visit flowering areas around twilight to observe the adults.
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When is the Best Time to Observe White Plume Moth
Nighttime is the most effective time to find adult white Plume Moth as they are nocturnal and attracted to light. For the earlier stages, daytime observation is more suitable.
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What is the Best Weather to Observe White Plume Moth
Calm, warm, and humid nights are ideal for spotting adult white Plume Moth. Avoid rain or strong wind conditions which deter their activity.
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How and Where Can You Find White Plume Moth at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of white Plume Moth are tiny and laid on the host plants. To find them, inspect the leaves of their preferred plants closely, especially on the undersides where they may be more protected.
Larva White Plume Moth larvae can be found on or near their host plants. Look for signs of feeding, such as chewed leaves, and examine the plant more closely for the presence of these caterpillars.
Pupal White Plume Moth pupae may be attached to plant stems or leaves or may be found in leaf litter. Carefully searching the area around identified host plants can yield sightings of this stage.
Adult Adult white Plume Moth can be located by using light traps at night as they are drawn to artificial light sources. A white sheet with a bright light can be an effective setup to observe and attract flying adults.
Are White Plume Moth harmful?
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Harmful Effects of White Plume Moth
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Hurt Plant

When white Plume Moth feeds on Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis), it primarily chews through plant tissues, resulting in noticeable damage. The leaves and stems are affected, leading to irregular holes and a ragged appearance. This feeding can compromise the plant's ability to photosynthesize effectively and can weaken the overall structural integrity of the host plant.

More Effects of White Plume Moth

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