Agonopterix nervosa

(Haworth, 1811)
Gorse Tip

Sort #: 993 | P #: 590108 | MPG #: 895
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Larval substrate: Ulex (Gorse), Cytisus scoparius (Scotch Broom), Laburnum (Chain Tree), Genista (Greenweed)
Phenology: Adult: 9/13 to 10/08 (2 records)

Comment: A specimen reported on iNaturalist is a very good match for this species; Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) is known to occur in the area where the moth was found. It was introduced into western US to control Gorse; the adult overwinters. In September 2023 feeding signs on Broom, probably of this species, were found in Provincetown and Falmouth. The presence of this species on Cape Cod has now been confirmed by a barcoded adult taken in Brewster in 2016.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Uncertain occurrence
Status in N. America: Introduced
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2016
Last Year Reported: 2023

Distribution by County: Barnstable
Number of Records: 4