SPOTTED SHOOT-MOTH

ADULT: Wingspan 15mm to 19mm.  A striking little micro moth with forewings that are brownish-ferruginous to orange with an array of irregular and variable grey-white markings.  The wings can be sprinkled with dark speckling.  The hindwings are uniformly grey with white cilia. LARVAE: The larvae feed on Pinus sylvestris and attack the leading shoots and buds where they feed internally. BEHAVIOUR: Can be seen flying through the day but primarily seen at night when attracted to light. HABITAT: Heathland and coniferous woodland. FLIGHT PERIOD: On the wing from late April to mid-July. STATUS: A resident and widely distributed over the UK and in certain parts can be quite common.