Tufted Apple Bud Moth
Common NameTufted Apple Bud Moth
Scientific NamePlatynota idaeusalis
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, grey, white
HabitatOrchards, woodlands, gardens, agricultural areas
Geographic RangeEastern North America, from southeastern Canada south to Florida and west to Texas and Kansas
Host Plantsapple, peach, cherry, plum, oak, maple, birch, willow, rose, clover, alfalfa, corn
Flight PeriodMay to September (multiple generations)
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid in masses on leaves. Larvae are greenish-yellow to brown with a dark head, feeding on leaves and fruit, often rolling leaves or webbing fruit together. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon within a rolled leaf or other protected site, with two to three generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the distinctive raised scale tufts on the forewings, the mottled brown/grey/white pattern, and the relatively broad, bell-shaped wings when at rest. The overall cryptic appearance is characteristic.
Description
A small moth with mottled brown, grey, and white forewings, often featuring a lighter central band and prominent raised scale tufts. Its cryptic coloration provides excellent camouflage.
