Holly Tortrix
Common NameHolly Tortrix
Scientific NameRhopobota naevana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatGardens, parks, woodlands, hedgerows
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia Minor, North America
Host Plantsholly, hawthorn, birch, willow
Flight PeriodJuly to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae feed inside spun leaves of host plants, primarily holly, creating shelters by tying leaves together. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often within the leaf litter or on the host plant.
Identification TipsKey identification features include its small size, the mottled brown and grey forewings, and the prominent pale, often whitish or cream-colored, triangular patch on the costa of the forewing, especially visible when at rest. Its association with holly is also a strong indicator.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled brown and grey forewings, often featuring a distinct pale, triangular patch on the leading edge (costa).
