Solidago Root Moth

Grapholita eclipsana is characterized by green eyes, striped outer edges of the forewings, and a gold and silver banner in the lower forewing. In photos one, two, and four, the proboscis can be seen curling and uncurling onto my finger. I think this moth was doing what I call "finger puddling." This phenomenon occurs in Lepidoptera and it is a way for them to gain necessary nutrients, namely salt. This can also be done in mud puddles, hence the term "puddling." A gorgeous moth which has a opal sheen in one light, and a greenish coloration in another. From a dorsal view, this moth looks like it is smiling.