Last modified: June 26, 2024, 2:07 p.m.
A very rare and local species in Belgium. After 2000 only known from very scarce observations in LX.
Native
Wingspan 11–13 mm. Resembles in coloration to Epinotia nanana but E. nigricana is larger and differs in the basal patch of the forewing which is angulated above the middle whereas in Epinotia nanana the outer edge is angulated below the middle.
Grey-brown forewings with diffuse grey transverse bands. One of them just inside the middle and one from the back corner diagonally towards the front edge. The inner transverse band is usually distinctly white along the inner edge in the posterior half.
Brownish abdomen with a black head and neck shield, anal valve as abdomen.
Tha larva bores in a terminal bud from autumn till spring. Infested buds remain behind when the uninhabited ones begin to sprout. It needs several buds to complete its development. Pupation often between the needles in a gray cocoon or on the ground.
The adults are active in afternoon sunshine and later come infrequently to light.
The adults are on the wing from late May towards July.
Frequenting silver fir plantations and mixed woodland.