Ailanthus Webworm Moth
ExploreInsects
Ailanthus Webworm Moth
Atteva aurea
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth is a colorful little moth with bright yellow and black stripes. It loves to flutter around trees and is often seen in gardens during warm months.
Habitat: Urban areas
Appearance
The Ailanthus Webworm Moth has striking yellowish-orange wings adorned with iridescent blue-black spots and stripes, giving it a jewel-like appearance. Its slender body and long antennae contribute to its distinct, almost wasp-like look, making it easily distinguishable.
KingdomAnimaliaPhylumArthropodaClassInsectaOrderLepidopteraFamilyAttevidaeGenusAtteva
Category
InsectsRarity
Common
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Snaps
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Interesting facts
Its caterpillar can eat so much it completely defoliates an entire tree!
The vibrant colors of this moth warn predators to stay away, like a secret code!
This moth's larvae live together inside silken webs on their host plant.
Unlike many moths, the Ailanthus Webworm Moth is active and flies during the daytime.
Special abilities
Ability
Wasp Whisperer
Ailanthus Webworm Moths have bright, contrasting patterns that help them mimic wasps, deterring predators who mistake them for stinging insects.
Ability
Silk Architect
Ailanthus Webworm Moth larvae can spin protective silk webs around their food source, which helps them stay safe from birds and other threats.
Ability
Toxic Taster
Ailanthus Webworm Moth caterpillars consume toxins from host plants, making them unpalatable to many predators that might try to eat them.
Measurements & details
- Wingspan
- 25-35 mm
- Size
- 10-15 mm
- Lifespan
- 15-30 days
- Leg Count
- 6
Diet & Feeding
Larvae munch on tree leaves while adults sip sweet nectar from various flowers.
Age differences: Larvae (caterpillars) chew on leaves, while adult moths sip flower nectar.
Primary Foods
- Ailanthus altissima leaves
- Flower nectar
Foraging Method
- Foraging
Ecological connections
depends on
Tree of Heaven
Ailanthus altissima
Larvae exclusively feed on its leaves for growth.
eaten by
American Robin
Turdus migratorius
Moths and caterpillars are a food source for birds.
parasitizes
A Braconid Wasp
Apanteles atrevi
Wasp larvae develop inside the moth's caterpillar host.
Traits
Striped
Marked with parallel bands or lines of color.
Solitary
Solitary animals live alone for most of their lives, only interacting with others for mating or parental care.
Web Builder
This trait characterizes organisms that construct elaborate silken webs for catching prey, shelter, or reproduction.
Colorful
Colorful describes organisms or objects displaying a wide range of bright and distinct colors.
Herbivorous
This trait characterizes organisms whose diet consists entirely or primarily of plant material.
Pollinator Magnet
Describes plants that are particularly attractive and beneficial to a wide range of pollinating organisms.
Diurnal
Diurnal animals are primarily active during daylight hours, typically resting or sleeping at night.
Urban Friendly
This habitat trait indicates species that can coexist with humans in urban and suburban environments, utilizing man-made structures and green spaces.
Pollinator
Describes organisms that transfer pollen, enabling the fertilization and reproduction of plants.
Also known as
No aliases listed yet.
Collections
Safety
Danger
1/5 · Very low
Moths are usually safe to watch, but don't touch them as they can be delicate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ailanthus Webworm Moth's wingspan?
25-35 mm
How big is Ailanthus Webworm Moth?
10-15 mm
How long does Ailanthus Webworm Moth live?
15-30 days
What does Ailanthus Webworm Moth eat?
Larvae munch on tree leaves while adults sip sweet nectar from various flowers.
Where is Ailanthus Webworm Moth usually found?
Urban areas
How does Ailanthus Webworm Moth hunt?
Foraging
How many legs does Ailanthus Webworm Moth have?
6
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