Pine cone tortrix
Common NamePine cone tortrix
Scientific NameCydia strobilella
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)15
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorssilver-grey, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatConiferous forests, spruce and pine plantations
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America
Host Plantsspruce (Picea spp.), pine (Pinus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on young conifer cones. Larvae bore into the developing cones, feeding on the seeds and overwintering inside the cone. Pupation occurs in spring, with adults emerging shortly after.
Identification TipsLook for its small size (12-18mm wingspan) and the distinctive mottled pattern of silvery-grey and reddish-brown bands on its forewings. It is typically found in coniferous forest environments.
Description
A small moth with mottled forewings displaying alternating bands of silvery-grey and reddish-brown to dark brown, providing excellent camouflage against conifer bark or cones. Its head often appears a lighter, orange-brown hue.
