Apple Skeletonizer Moth
Common NameApple Skeletonizer Moth
Scientific NameChoreutis pariana
FamilyChoreutidae
SubfamilyChoreutinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Primary Colorscream, brown, dark brown
HabitatOrchards, gardens, woodlands, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantsapple, cherry, hawthorn, birch, pear, quince, mountain ash
Flight PeriodMay to June, July to October (multiple broods)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves. Larvae are pale green and skeletonize leaves by feeding between the veins, often within silken webs. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its small size (10-15mm wingspan), the distinctive mottled forewing pattern, and its association with apple and other fruit trees. The roof-like resting posture is characteristic.
Description
A small moth with cream to light brown forewings mottled with irregular dark brown or blackish spots and patches. It typically rests with its wings held in a roof-like position over its body.
