Fairy longhorn moths are a family of moths that are primitive micromoths. They are primarily diurnal, though some are crepuscular.
The larvae construct a case for themselves close to the host plant or on the ground.
Pupation takes place inside the case built by the caterpillar.
Sexual Dimorphism: Present. Males have longer antennae than females, around 3 times longer than wings.
Color and Appearance
When opened, the elongated wings have an iridescent appearance. When closed, these markings remain visible.
Average wingspan: 0.4-2.8 cm
Flight pattern: Erratic
Season: April to June
Female moths either insert their eggs in their preferred host plant or lay them on leaf litter.
| Other names | Fairy moths |
| Distribution | Australia, Eurasia, North America, sub-Saharan Africa, southeast Asia, and the Neotropics |
| Habitat | Chaparral, forests, grasslands, and woodlands |
| Lifespan of Adults | Around 1 week |
| Host Plants | Grasses, Carey’s balsamroot |
| Adult Diet | Nectar |