Woolly-backed Moth
Common NameWoolly-backed Moth
Scientific NameExoteleia dodecella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyGelechiinae
Wingspan (mm)12
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, black, cream
HabitatConiferous forests, pine plantations, parks, gardens
Geographic RangeEurope, Asia, North America (introduced)
Host Plantspine (Pinus spp.)
Flight PeriodMay to August
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are needle miners and bud borers of pine trees, overwintering as larvae and pupating in spring before adults emerge in late spring to summer.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, pointed wings, and intricate cryptic pattern of dark and light brown/cream markings, often found in association with pine trees.
Description
A small, cryptically patterned moth with pointed forewings, featuring a complex mosaic of dark brown, black, and pale cream markings that provide excellent camouflage.
