49.306 BF1211

Rhyacionia pinicolana

(Doubleday, 1850)

Wingspan 16-23 mm.

This species bears a close resemblance to R. buoliana, but has generally slightly stronger markings on the forewing and a shallower 'V' marking towards the rear. In difficult cases it may be necessary to refer to genitalia dissection to confirm identity.

Inhabiting pine woods, the moths fly during July and August and are generally nocturnal, though it can be disturbed during the day.

The larvae feed on the shoots of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris), in a manner similar to that of R. buoliana. It is distributed over much of England, but is rather rare elsewhere.