Pine Tube Moth
Common NamePine Tube Moth
Scientific NameArgyrotaenia pinatubana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)13.5
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, white
HabitatPine forests, woodlands with host pines
Geographic RangeEastern North America (southeastern Canada and eastern United States)
Host PlantsPinus strobus, Pinus resinosa, Pinus banksiana, Pinus sylvestris
Flight PeriodMay to September (two broods in some areas)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are known as 'pine tube makers' because they tie together pine needles with silk to form a protective tube where they feed. They overwinter as pupae or larvae within these tubes.
Identification TipsLook for its small size and distinctive mottled brown and white pattern on the forewings. Often found in association with pine trees, especially white pine, where its larvae create characteristic feeding tubes.
Description
A small moth with forewings mottled in shades of reddish-brown, dark brown, and silvery-white, often forming irregular bands. It has prominent, somewhat shaggy palps and slender antennae.
