Large Beech Piercer
Common NameLarge Beech Piercer
Scientific NamePammene fagineana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)13
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsgrey, brown, black, yellowish
HabitatBeech woodlands and forests
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsFagus sylvatica (European Beech)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae bore into and feed within the nuts of European Beech. Pupation typically occurs in the soil or leaf litter.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the mottled grey-brown forewing pattern with a subtle golden sheen, and its strong association with beech trees as a host plant.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with mottled grey, brown, and black forewings, often with subtle yellowish or golden scales, and slender antennae.
