Gorse Pod Moth
Common NameGorse Pod Moth
Scientific NameCydia succedana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, grey, black
HabitatHeathland, scrubland, gorse thickets, open woodlands, gardens
Geographic RangeWestern and Central Europe, including the British Isles; parts of North Africa and Asia Minor
Host Plantsgorse, broom
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on gorse or broom pods, where larvae hatch and feed on the developing seeds. Larvae overwinter, often pupating in the soil or leaf litter in spring.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive dark basal patch on the forewing contrasting with the paler, mottled outer half, and its strong association with gorse and broom plants.
Description
This small moth has forewings that are dark brown and black at the base, contrasting with a creamy white or pale grey outer half, marked with fine dark striations and speckles, giving it a mottled, cryptic appearance.
