Ottawa (Dunrobin), ON Canada

1 July 2003   8:48PM EST  (top left)
7 June 2003   8:45PM EST  (top right)
16 June 2003   9:06PM 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.

Clepsis persicana is one of three species of Clepsis known to occur in the Ottawa area.  On the forewing, a white outward-curving triangular patch at the center of the costa, somewhat like a sharp tooth, gives rise to the common name White Triangle Tortrix.  The basal and subterminal areas of the wing are orange-tan in color, while the medial area is a rich brown.  The terminal line is white.  Overall, this moth looks very smooth and sleek.  Covell (1984) indicates a wingspan ranging from 15 to 22 mm.

According to Covell, the larvae of Clepsis persicana feed on a wide variety of trees, including alder, apple, birch, fir, maple, tamarack and spruce.

I have photographed this species in 2001, on 6, 9 and 12 June; in 2002, on 7 and 19 June; in 2003, on 7, 10, 11, 14, 16, 17 and 27 June, and on 1 and 2 July.