Large Fruit-tree Tortrix - Archips podana.

Large Fruit-tree Tortrix - Archips podana. A micro moth species from the family of Tortricidae , subfamily Tortricinae. The moth has a wingspan of 18 to 26 mm. Sexual dimorphism is quite pronounced. The male has a costal fold on the forewing and is usually smaller and more brightly coloured than the female. The female has no costal fold and a more protruding apex on the forewing. This moth can be found on the wing from June to July, but adults can be found from May to September, with late emerging specimens possibly being a less numerous second generation. They come readily to light. Its habitat is in gardens, orchards, hedgerows, and woodland. The species’ life history is that the larvae feed on the foliage, flowers, and fruit of a wide variety of deciduous trees, including apple, plum, blackthorn, cherry, and occasionally conifers. The usual larval development is to feed between July and September, and after overwintering, they complete their feeding and growth in April or May. Occasionally, full-grown larvae can be found in late August. These then pupate and emerge as adults in early September. Quite common in low-lying areas throughout England and Wales but less so in Scotland and classified as common in the UK.

Tags: Large Fruit-tree Tortrix - Archips podana.