American Plum Borer Moth
Common NameAmerican Plum Borer Moth
Scientific NameEuzophera semifuneralis
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, grey
HabitatOrchards, woodlands, areas with host fruit trees
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread, particularly eastern and central regions)
Host Plantsplum, cherry, apple, peach, apricot, oak, maple, elm
Flight PeriodApril to October (two generations)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the bark of various fruit and deciduous trees, feeding on the inner bark and cambium, often in damaged or cankered areas. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in cocoons within their tunnels or in nearby debris.
Identification TipsLook for its cryptic mottled brown and black forewing pattern, which helps it blend in with tree bark. It is often found near fruit trees where its larvae are borers.
Description
A small, slender moth with forewings mottled in shades of brown, black, and grey, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark. The hindwings are typically a uniform pale grey.
