Black-tipped Ermine
Common NameBlack-tipped Ermine
Scientific NameYponomeuta cagnagella
FamilyYponomeutidae
SubfamilyYponomeutinae
Wingspan (mm)22
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, black
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, hedgerows where host plants are present
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host PlantsEuonymus spp., Celastrus spp.
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, forming communal silken webs on host plants where they feed and pupate. They can cause significant defoliation.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its white forewings with numerous small black spots and the characteristic prominent black apex, often found near *Euonymus* plants.
Description
A small, slender moth with white forewings densely covered in small black spots, culminating in a distinct black tip. Its hindwings are grey.
