Thistle Conch
Common NameThistle Conch
Scientific NameCochylis atricapitana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyCochylini
Wingspan (mm)12.5
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorscream, reddish-brown
HabitatMeadows, grasslands, waste ground, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, North Africa, Asia, introduced to North America
Host Plantsthistles (Cirsium, Carduus spp.), knapweeds (Centaurea spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to September (bivoltine)
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into the flowerheads and stems of thistles and knapweeds, pupating within the plant or in the soil. Typically has two generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the distinctive reddish-brown diagonal band on the pale forewings, and a generally darker head. Often found in areas with its thistle host plants.
Description
A small moth with pale yellowish-cream forewings featuring a prominent, broad reddish-brown diagonal band and a darker head.
