Garden Tortrix (Clepsis peritana) lives in moist woodland edges across Spain, Cuba, North America. It feeds on fruits and leaves.
Fascinating facts about the Garden Tortrix
- Garden tortrix caterpillars munch on a menu that includes Chrysanthemum, artichoke (Cynara cardunculus), ragwort, Stachys, strawberry, citrus, Scrophularia californica and Solanum torvum. Full-grown larvae reach 13-14 mm, sporting a light green abdomen that can shift hue depending on which plant they ate, while the head stays yellowish brown.
- Garden tortrix moths span two continents, living in Spain, Cuba and across North America from southern Canada down through the United States. That broad distribution means they can survive in temperate zones as well as subtropical islands.
- Male garden tortrix moths measure 10-15 mm across their wings, while females are slightly larger at 12-15 mm.
- Adults take to the air from March through September, producing several generations each year.
- From early March until late September, adult garden tortrixes are on the wing, producing several generations each summer. This long flight period means the species can repeatedly infest the same garden season after season. Tracking its calendar alerts growers to the times when protective measures are most needed.
Sources
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At a glance
RangeSpain, Cuba, North America
HabitatMoist woodland edges
DietFruits and leaves
About the Garden Tortrix
In the lush tapestry of the garden, the Garden Tortrix moth weaves its subtle magic, its delicate wings beating in a mesmerizing dance as it flits from bloom to bloom. With a quiet determination, it navigates the intricate landscape of petals and leaves, its slender body undulating as it searches for the perfect haven to lay its eggs. As the warm sunlight casts its golden glow, the Garden Tortrix comes alive, its humble beauty and gentle nature a testament to the wonders that await discovery in the unassuming corners of our natural world.
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