Red-striped Needleworm Moth
Common NameRed-striped Needleworm Moth
Scientific NameEpinotia aceriella
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, black
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, areas with maple trees
Geographic RangeEastern North America (e.g., Canada, eastern United States)
Host Plantsmaple (Acer spp.), sugar maple (Acer saccharum)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are 'needleworms' or 'leaf-rollers' on maple trees, tying or rolling leaves to feed within. Pupation occurs in the leaf litter or within the rolled leaf, with one generation per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, cryptic brown, cream, and reddish-brown mottling, and the characteristic dark median band on the forewings. Often found in association with maple trees.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with forewings mottled in shades of brown, cream, and reddish-brown, often featuring a darker median band and lighter patches, blending well with tree bark.
