Cypress Tortrix
Common NameCypress Tortrix
Scientific NameCnephasia cupressivorana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)17
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatGardens, parks, conifer plantations, and areas with cypress and juniper trees
Geographic RangeEurope, including the British Isles, and parts of North Africa
Host PlantsCupressus (cypress), Juniperus (juniper), Thuja (arborvitae)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed internally or externally on the foliage of various conifers, sometimes causing damage to young shoots. Pupation occurs within a silken cocoon, often among the host plant's needles.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its characteristic mottled grey-brown forewings and association with cypress and juniper host plants. Precise identification often requires microscopic examination due to similarity with other *Cnephasia* species.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey and brown forewings, often appearing speckled with whitish scales, providing excellent camouflage against bark or lichen.
