Eastern Pine Seedworm Moth
Common NameEastern Pine Seedworm Moth
Scientific NameCydia toreuta
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Primary Colorsbrown, bronze, silver
HabitatPine forests, conifer plantations
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsPinus strobus, Pinus resinosa, Pinus sylvestris, Pinus banksiana
Flight PeriodMay to August
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae develop inside pine cones, feeding on the developing seeds. Pupation typically occurs within the cone or in the duff layer beneath the host tree.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive mottled brown and metallic bronze-silver forewing pattern, and its presence in areas with various pine species, particularly where cones are present.
Description
A small moth with mottled brown and bronze forewings, often exhibiting a metallic sheen and subtle banding, with a somewhat squared-off wingtip appearance when at rest.
