Foothill Web-worm
Bryotropha inaequalis (?)
This moth is quite small, less than 1.5 cm wingspan. It is supported on an insect pin. Reared from larva found inHappy Valley, Maricopa Co., Arizona, USA. May 2010.
Gelichiidae -- a Moth Family
Through the much of the year Foothills Palo Verde (Parkinsonia microphylla) is without leaves. Only in spring with new growth do fresh leaves appear. Depending on the weather during May and June, these leaves are eventually shed leaving green twigs and branches to conduct photosynthesis. Just before the leaves fall off great numbers of this web-spinning moth's caterpillars may become noticeable with their glistening silk beneath which they devour the leaves.