SeasonalityJulyIdentificationThis species is white with variable bluish steel grey shading through much of the forewing and with distinct tufts along the inner margin of the antemedian, median, and postmedian areas, giving it a rough appearance of bird-droppings. The largest scale tuft is the antemedian one and the smallest is the postmedian one and all are composed of warm brown and black scales. The hindwing and abdomen are brown while the rest of the body is white, except for a median patch of bluish scales on the thorax dorsum. The antennae are brown, sometimes with a white scape and the legs are variably marked with white and brown. The forewing is six to ten millimetres in length and are held roof-like at rest with the tufts distinctly projecting.
Scientific NameMompha claudiellaHabitat
Probably open areas in the boreal forest
Seasonality
July
Identification
This species is white with variable bluish steel grey shading through much of the forewing and with distinct tufts along the inner margin of the antemedian, median, and postmedian areas, giving it a rough appearance…
This species is white with variable bluish steel grey shading through much of the forewing and with distinct tufts along the inner margin of the antemedian, median, and postmedian areas, giving it a rough appearance of bird-droppings. The largest scale tuft is the antemedian one and the smallest is the postmedian one and all are composed of warm brown and black scales. The hindwing and abdomen are brown while the rest of the body is white, except for a median patch of bluish scales on the thorax dorsum. The antennae are brown, sometimes with a white scape and the legs are variably marked with white and brown. The forewing is six to ten millimetres in length and are held roof-like at rest with the tufts distinctly projecting.
Life History
Very rarely comes to lights and rarely collected, most Mompha species fly mainly in the early morning (Koster & Sinev 2003).
Conservation
Probably of no concern
Diet Info
Unknown, probably an internal feeder of the root or stem of Epilobium or Oenothera.
Range
Known from Edmonton in Alberta, and probably found throughout the boreal forest across Canada.
Citation
Page Citation for Mompha claudiella
Page Citation
"Species Details - Mompha claudiella, University of Alberta E.H. Strickland Entomological Museum." University of Alberta Museums Search Site, https://search.museums.ualberta.ca/g/2-5994. Accessed 12 Feb. 2025.