Orange-spotted Shoot
Common NameOrange-spotted Shoot
Scientific NameRhyacionia pinicolana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Primary Colorsorange, white
HabitatConiferous forests, pine plantations, heathland with pines
Geographic RangeEurope, extending eastwards into Russia
Host PlantsPinus sylvestris, Pinus nigra, Pinus contorta
Flight PeriodJuly to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the terminal shoots of various pine species, causing the shoots to become distorted or die back. Pupation occurs within the damaged shoot.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its characteristic orange and white mottled forewing pattern, which lacks strong transverse bands. The overall orange-spotted appearance helps differentiate it from similar *Rhyacionia* species.
Description
A small moth with forewings mottled in a distinct pattern of orange-brown and creamy white, giving it a somewhat reticulated or spotted appearance. The head and thorax are also pale.
