European Spruce Needleminer Moth
Common NameEuropean Spruce Needleminer Moth
Scientific NameEpinotia tedella
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, white
HabitatConiferous forests, spruce plantations, gardens with spruce
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia, introduced to North America
Host PlantsPicea abies, Picea spp.
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae mine the needles of spruce trees, overwintering within the needles and pupating in spring. Adults emerge in late spring to early summer.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, mottled grey-brown forewings, and its presence in areas with spruce trees. Larval damage (mined spruce needles) is also a key indicator.
Description
A small, cryptically colored moth with mottled grey-brown forewings speckled with lighter cream or white scales, providing excellent camouflage against bark or lichen.
