Juniper Seed Moth
Common NameJuniper Seed Moth
Scientific NameCydia juniperana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, white
HabitatJuniper woodlands, dry forests, scrublands
Geographic RangeNorth America, Europe, Asia
Host PlantsJuniperus communis, Juniperus virginiana, other Juniperus species
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae develop inside the seeds of juniper trees, feeding on the developing ovules. Pupation may occur within the seed or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, mottled grey-brown forewings, and strong association with juniper trees, where its larvae infest the seeds.
Description
A very small, cryptically colored moth, typically mottled grey and brown, blending well with bark and foliage.
