Plume Moths

Family Pterophoridae

Artichoke plume moth (Platyptilia carduidactyla). Photo:Stephanie Boucher

The larvae bore into stems or are leaf rollers. Some species are agricultural pests. Pterophoridae are small and slender moths that are easily recognized by their narrow feather like wings which are split into two or three parts. They are usually gray or brownish and some have relatively long legs with spines at the joints. The caterpillars are hairy.