Western Spruce Budworm Moth
Common NameWestern Spruce Budworm Moth
Scientific NameChoristoneura occidentalis
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyTortricinae
Wingspan (mm)24
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsorange-brown, dark brown, grey, white
HabitatConiferous forests, especially those with spruce, fir, and Douglas-fir
Geographic RangeWestern North America (from British Columbia south to California and east to the Rocky Mountains)
Host PlantsDouglas-fir, grand fir, subalpine fir, white fir, Engelmann spruce, blue spruce, lodgepole pine, western larch
Flight PeriodLate June to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae overwinter in silken hibernacula, emerge in spring to feed on developing buds and new needles of conifers, pupate in cocoons on foliage, and adults emerge in summer to mate and lay eggs.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive mottled forewing pattern of browns, oranges, and greys. The overall appearance is cryptic, blending well with conifer bark. Often found in areas with spruce and fir trees.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled forewings displaying a complex pattern of orange-brown, dark brown, and light grey or white patches, providing excellent camouflage against tree bark.
