
Community identification
Plume moth (likely a white plume moth)
Pterophorus pentadactyla
- Order & Family
- Lepidoptera; Pterophoridae
- Size
- Wingspan typically 24–32 mm (about 1–1¼ in).
Natural Habitat
Gardens, grasslands, woodland edges, and other areas with herbaceous plants; adults often rest on walls or woodwork.
Diet & Feeding
Larvae feed mainly on bindweed and related plants; adults generally consume little or may take nectar.
Behavior Patterns
Nocturnal and weak-flying; when resting, the deeply divided wings form a distinctive T shape. Larvae are greenish and feed externally on host plants before pupating.
Risks & Benefits
Harmless to people, pets, and structures. It contributes to food webs and may modestly affect bindweed populations, though larvae can damage ornamental plants.