Bug Identifier
Plume moth (likely a white plume moth)
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).
See this bug in the Encyclopedia

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.