Common Birch Bell
Common NameCommon Birch Bell
Scientific NameEpinotia immundana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatWoodlands, forests, parks, and gardens where birch trees are present
Geographic RangeEurope, including the British Isles, and parts of Asia
Host Plantsbirch (Betula spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae feed on the catkins and leaves of birch trees, often spinning them together. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, typically on the host plant or in leaf litter.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, mottled brown and white forewings with a somewhat silvery sheen, and its association with birch trees. The bell-shaped resting posture is typical of Tortricidae.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled brown, black, and silvery-white scales, giving it a bark-like appearance. Its wings are held in a characteristic bell-shape at rest.
