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Goldenrod stowaway facts for kids

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Goldenrod stowaway
Goldenrod Stowaway 9050195.03.c.wiki.jpg
Scientific classification
Kingdom:
Phylum:
Class:
Order:
Family:
Genus:
Cirrhophanus
Species:
C. triangulifer
Binomial name
Cirrhophanus triangulifer
Grote, 1872

The goldenrod stowaway or tickseed moth (scientific name: Cirrhophanus triangulifer) is a fascinating type of moth. It belongs to a large group of moths called the Noctuidae family. This moth was first officially described by a scientist named Augustus Radcliffe Grote in 1872.

You can find the goldenrod stowaway moth in many parts of the United States. It lives from New York all the way down to Florida. Its home also stretches west to Texas and Oklahoma, and north to Wisconsin. In Canada, this moth has only been seen in Ontario.

What is the Goldenrod Stowaway Moth?

The goldenrod stowaway moth is known for its unique appearance. It has a wingspan of about 30 to 44 millimeters. This means that when its wings are fully spread out, they measure between 3 and 4.4 centimeters across. That's about the length of a small paperclip!

These moths are usually seen flying around during the day. They are often found near bright yellow flowers. Their colors help them blend in with these flowers, making it harder for predators to spot them.

When Can You See Them?

Adult goldenrod stowaway moths are typically active from August to September. This is when they are "on wing," which means they are flying around. During these months, you might spot them visiting various flowers.

They especially love flowers like Solidago, Coreopsis, and Bidens. These plants often have bright yellow flowers, which are perfect for the moths. The moths visit these flowers to drink nectar, which gives them energy.

Life Cycle of the Goldenrod Stowaway Moth

Like all moths, the goldenrod stowaway moth goes through several stages in its life. This process is called metamorphosis. It starts as an egg, then becomes a larva, then a pupa, and finally an adult moth.

What Do They Eat?

The young moths, called larvae or caterpillars, have a special diet. They mostly feed on plants from the Bidens family. One of their favorite foods is a plant called Bidens bipinnata. These plants provide all the nutrients the caterpillars need to grow big and strong.

After eating enough, the larva will turn into a pupa. This is a resting stage where the moth changes into its adult form. Once the change is complete, a beautiful adult goldenrod stowaway moth will emerge, ready to start the cycle all over again.

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