The false codling moth, Thaumatotibia leucotreta (Meyrick), is one of the most destructive pests of avocado, citrus, and cotton in Africa. On July 24, 2008, a male of this species was identified from a pheromone trap located in Ventura County, California. Although larvae of T. leucotreta are frequently intercepted at U.S. ports-of-entry, primarily on bell peppers (Capsicum sp.), eggplant (Solanum melongena), and clémentines (Citrus sp.), this represents the first North American record outside of a port or international commercial shipment. Additional individuals have not been recorded from California suggesting that this species is not yet established in the state. We provide descriptions, illustrations, and other information to help in the identification of this species.