Ottawa (Dunrobin), ON Canada

28 June 2003   12:06AM EST  (top left)
25 June 2003   10:20PM EST  (top right)
28 June 2003   12:17AM EST  (bottom)

My initial identification of this species was based on Covell (1984) and subsequently checked against specimens in the Canadian National Collection in Ottawa, thanks to the kindness of Dr. J. Donald Lafontaine in arranging access to this resource.

Argyrotaenia alisellana is one of 9 species of Argyrotaenia known to occur in the Ottawa area.  To my eye, the wing is whitish, with large brown areas in the median area between two brown lines that cross the wing.  The central brown shade does not reach the costa between the two lines, leaving an oblong patch of white next to the central part of the costa.  Near the outer margin in the subterminal area, the white area is divided by into several somewhat circular areas by brown markings.  Covell (1984) indicates a wingspan ranging from 1.8 to 2.5 cm.

According to Covell (1984), the larva of Argyrotaenia alisellana feeds on oak.  The result of an Internet search indicates a common name of White-Spotted Leaf Roller.

I have photographed this species in 2001 on 19 June; in 2002 on 1 July; in 2003, on 23, 24, 25 and 28 June, and on 2 July.