Last modified: Dec. 4, 2024, 1:51 p.m.
A not so common and widespread species in Belgium, more frequently observed in the northern provinces.
Native
Wingspan 18–23 mm. A fairly variable species, though usually showing a pale blotch on the dorsal area, sometimes edged with darker.
The nominate and other fasciate forms of E. brunnichana may be confused with some forms of Epinotia solandriana, which dorsal blotch is triangular and in Epinotia brunnichiana it is subquadrate or trapezoid.
Also in E. brunnichiana the outer edge of the subbasal fascia is less oblique dorsally.
The larva rolls a leaf transversally from apex to petiole on the larval food plant. It pupates in the ground. The adults are active at dusk and later come to light.
The adults fly usually from mid-June till mid-September.
The larva feeds mainly on Betula and perhaps also on Corylus or Salix.
It inhabits birch woodland, heathland and mixed woodland.