Kentish Cosmet
Common NameKentish Cosmet
Scientific NameBlastodacna atra
FamilyCosmopterigidae
SubfamilyCosmopteriginae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatOrchards, gardens, woodlands, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, parts of Asia
Host Plantsapple, hawthorn, pear, rowan
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the shoots and fruits of host trees, particularly apple, causing damage. Pupation occurs in a cocoon.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, characteristic mottled brown and whitish forewing pattern, and its association with apple and other Rosaceae trees. The long antennae are also a distinguishing feature.
Description
A small, slender moth with dark brown forewings mottled with whitish-grey scales, often forming indistinct bands or patches. It has long, simple antennae.
