Apple Ermine
Common NameApple Ermine
Scientific NameYponomeuta malinellus
FamilyYponomeutidae
SubfamilyYponomeutinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatOrchards, gardens, woodlands with host trees
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (introduced)
Host PlantsMalus domestica (apple), other Malus species
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious and construct large, communal silken webs on apple trees, where they feed and can cause significant defoliation. Pupation occurs within these webs, and adults emerge in summer.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its pristine white forewings with a pattern of evenly distributed black spots. The presence of large, silken 'ermine' webs on apple trees is a strong indicator of larval activity.
Description
A small, slender moth with pure white forewings densely covered in numerous small, distinct black spots. Its hindwings are typically grey.
