Pine-tree lappet moth (Dendrolimus pini) is only known to occur in Scotland in the Beauly catchment area near Inverness.
A male moth was first detected here in 2004 and a breeding population was later found in 2008. Numbers in and around the core breeding area have remained low.
No breeding populations have been detected elsewhere in the UK.
The preferred host for pine-tree lappet moth (PtLM) is Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris). But it will feed on other species of pine and conifers more generally.
Moth outbreaks occur periodically across much of Europe and Russia. This causes substantial damage to pine forests.
Pest Risk Analysis for PtLM available from the Forest Research website.
Pest Risk Analysis for Pine-tree lappet moth (Forest Research website)
How does pine-tree lappet moth affect trees?
The caterpillars can strip needles from entire canopies, leaving them bare.
In severe cases, this kills the tree. This defoliation can weaken the tree, making it more vulnerable to attack by other pests or diseases.
Female moths are less mobile than male moths that can fly significant distances (kilometres). Longer distance spread also occurs through the movement of cocoons and larvae on wood and foliage.
