Tortrixes (Tortricidae)

Tortrixes is a family of small moths comprised of some 400 members in the UK. Resting, most species hold their wings like a roof. In this way they look like very small Owlet Moths. Most species have a wingspan between 10 and 20 mm only. The caterpillar often rolls up a leaf and lives a sheltered life inside. Because of this behaviour they are also referred to as Leaf-rolling Moths, especially in the USA. Not all caterpillars roll up leaves though. Some mine leaves in the early stages of life, others bore into stems of plants or leaves. Some species are very difficult to tell apart, but most can be identified, especially when slightly enlarged. There are many very beautiful species among them.

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