Pitch Twig Moth
Common NamePitch Twig Moth
Scientific NameDioryctria reniculelloides
FamilyPyralidae
SubfamilyPhycitinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, reddish-brown, white, grey
HabitatConiferous forests, spruce-fir forests
Geographic RangeNorth America, widespread in coniferous regions
Host Plantsspruce, pine, fir, larch
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the twigs, cones, and bark of various conifer species, often causing damage to new growth and developing cones.
Identification TipsLook for its characteristic reddish-brown and white mottled forewings and its presence in coniferous forests. It often rests cryptically on bark or twigs.
Description
A small, slender moth with reddish-brown forewings mottled with distinct white and grey markings, providing excellent camouflage against conifer bark.
