Ottawa (Dunrobin), ON Canada

16 July 2003   11:18PM EST  (top left and right)
16 May 2003   8:59PM EST  (bottom left)
16 May 2003   9:00PM EST  (bottom right)
The top two photos are of the same specimen, as are the bottom two photos.

My identification of this species was initially based on Covell (1984).  My thanks to Dr. P.T. Dang of the Canadian Forest Service for confirming the identification for the actual specimen illustrated in the top photos above.

Argyrotaenia velutinana is one of 9 species of Argyrotaenia known to occur in the Ottawa area.  Its common name of Red-Banded Leafroller Moth (Covell, 1984) derives from the wide diagonal band of reddish brown on the forewing of the female.  The basal area is mainly orangish tan, with dark shading near the inner margin.  A lighter area beween this dark shading and the median band forms a pale diamond outlined in white when the wings are closed.  Beyond the median band is mainly whitish, but with a dark brown to black triangle at the costal edge.  According to Covell, the markings in the male differ somewhat from the female; in particular, the oblique band is is blackish, especially towards the costa.

Covell (1984) states that Argyrotaenia velutinana is "the most serious pest of apple trees, eating fruits and foliage."  In addition, the larvae feed on cherries, grapes, peaches, plums, spruces, vegetables and many other plants.

I have photographed this species in 2000 on 26 July; in 2001 on 9 July; in 2003, on 16 May, and on 16, 20 and 21 July.