White Pine Barkminer Moth
Common NameWhite Pine Barkminer Moth
Scientific NameColeotechnites piceaella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)9
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, black, grey
HabitatConiferous forests, especially those with white pine, spruce, or fir.
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host PlantsPinus strobus, Picea spp., Abies spp., Tsuga spp.
Flight PeriodJune to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are needle miners, feeding within the needles of various conifers. They overwinter as larvae and pupate in the spring, with adults emerging in early summer.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive mottled grey/white/black forewing pattern with irregular bands, and its reddish eyes. It often rests with its wings folded tightly over its body, giving it a very narrow, pointed appearance.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled grey, black, and white forewings, often appearing with irregular white bands. It has prominent reddish-orange eyes.
