Ugly-nest Caterpillar Moth
Common NameUgly-nest Caterpillar Moth
Scientific NameArchips cerasivorana
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Primary Colorsorange, brown
HabitatDeciduous forests, woodlands, shrublands, open areas with host plants
Geographic RangeNorth America (primarily eastern and central United States and Canada)
Host PlantsPrunus virginiana (chokecherry), Prunus serotina (black cherry), Malus (apple), Betula (birch), Salix (willow), Crataegus (hawthorn)
Flight PeriodJune to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are gregarious, living communally in large, conspicuous silken nests on the branches of host plants, where they feed on leaves. Pupation occurs within these silken nests.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled orange and brown forewings and the bell-shaped resting posture. The presence of large, silken 'ugly nests' on cherry or other woody plants, created by the larvae, is a strong indicator.
Description
A small moth with a bell-shaped resting posture, featuring forewings mottled with shades of orange and dark brown, often with a somewhat reticulated or checkered appearance. The head and thorax are fuzzy and orange.
