Lesser Bud Moth
Common NameLesser Bud Moth
Scientific NameRecurvaria nanella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)11
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, white, black
HabitatOrchards, gardens, areas with rosaceous host plants
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia Minor, Central Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantsapple, pear, plum, cherry, apricot, hawthorn, blackthorn, quince
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae hatch in spring, feeding on buds and young leaves of host plants. They pupate in a cocoon on the host plant or in the soil, with adults emerging in summer. The species overwinters as a larva.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size (10-12mm wingspan) and the distinctive mottled brown, white, and black forewing pattern. Often found in proximity to fruit trees.
Description
A small moth with mottled forewings, displaying a cryptic pattern of brown, white, and black scales, giving it a camouflaged appearance. Its head and thorax are similarly mottled.
