Blackthorn Crest
Common NameBlackthorn Crest
Scientific NameDitula angustiorana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown
HabitatGardens, orchards, hedgerows, woodlands, and areas with host plants
Geographic RangeWidespread across Europe, North Africa, parts of Asia, and introduced to North America
Host PlantsPrunus, Malus, Pyrus, Crataegus, Rosa, Quercus, Betula, Salix
Flight PeriodMay to July and August to October (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are polyphagous leaf-rollers, feeding within spun leaves or fruit of various deciduous trees and shrubs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon within the larval feeding site, and the species typically overwinters as a larva.
Identification TipsKey features include its reddish-brown to grey-brown forewings with subtle darker markings, and its characteristic resting posture with prominent, snout-like labial palps. Can be distinguished from similar Tortricidae by its overall coloration and pattern.
Description
A small, reddish-brown to grey-brown moth with a somewhat triangular resting posture and prominent, upturned labial palps forming a snout. The forewings typically have faint darker markings, providing camouflage.
