Birch Skeletonizer
Common NameBirch Skeletonizer
Scientific NameBucculatrix canadensisella
FamilyBucculatricidae
SubfamilyBucculatricinae
Wingspan (mm)7
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsyellow, brown, white
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with birch trees
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread, especially eastern)
Host Plantsbirch (Betula spp.)
Flight PeriodLate May to early July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae initially mine birch leaves, then emerge to skeletonize the underside of the leaves, consuming the tissue between the veins. They construct small, ribbed cocoons for pupation.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the characteristic white banding on yellowish-brown forewings, and its presence near birch trees. Larval damage (skeletonized birch leaves) is also a key indicator.
Description
A very small moth with yellowish-brown forewings distinctly marked by two prominent, irregular white transverse bands and additional white patches. Its head is tufted with yellowish-white scales.
