Hellinsia costatus facts for kids

The Hellinsia costatus is a type of moth that belongs to the Pterophoridae family. These moths are also known as "plume moths" because their wings often look like feathers! This specific moth was first described by two scientists, William Barnes and Arthur Ward Lindsey, in 1921.

What Does the Hellinsia costatus Moth Look Like?

This moth has a wingspan of about 30 to 33 millimeters (which is about 1.2 to 1.3 inches). That's roughly the length of a paperclip!

• Head and Body: The moth's head, chest (thorax), and belly (abdomen) are usually a pale grayish-yellow color. The area between its feelers (antennae) is even lighter.
• Feelers and Mouthparts: Its antennae and mouthparts (palpi) are more whitish. The palpi have a dark line on the outside of their third part.
• Wings: The front wings are yellowish-white, with some gray shading. They become darker and more brownish near the front edge. The fuzzy edges (fringes) of the wings are mostly the same color as the wings themselves. The back wings and their fringes are a brownish-gray color.

Where Does the Hellinsia costatus Moth Live?

You can find the Hellinsia costatus moth in North America. It lives in several different places, including:

• California
• Utah
• British Columbia (which is in Canada)