About Box Tree Moth
A white moth with iridescent brown wing borders that has become one of Europe's most destructive invasive species. Its caterpillars can completely defoliate ornamental boxwood hedges.
Did You Know?
Since arriving in Europe around 2007, it has devastated centuries-old boxwood gardens across the continent.
How to Identify Box Tree Moth
Box Tree Moth (Cydalima perspectalis) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Crambidae. Adults typically measure 35-45 mm wingspan.
Box Tree Moth Habitat
Box Tree Moth is found in gardens habitats, particularly across Native to East Asia; invasive in Europe and North America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Box Tree Moth Diet and Feeding
Box Tree Moth feeds on wood and bark, often boring into timber. Wood-feeding insects contribute to the decomposition of dead trees and nutrient cycling in forest ecosystems.
Where Is Box Tree Moth Found?
Box Tree Moth can be found in Native to East Asia; invasive in Europe and North America, where it inhabits gardens environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Box Tree Moth can be found
Is Box Tree Moth Dangerous?
Box Tree Moth is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Box Tree Moth Role in Nature
Box Tree Moth is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Box Tree Moth
What does Box Tree Moth look like?
The Box Tree Moth typically measures 35-45 mm wingspan.
Where is Box Tree Moth found?
The Box Tree Moth is found in Native to East Asia; invasive in Europe and North America and typically inhabits gardens environments.
What does Box Tree Moth eat?
The Box Tree Moth feeds on wood and bark, often boring into timber.
Is Box Tree Moth dangerous to humans?
The Box Tree Moth is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Box Tree Moth?
Since arriving in Europe around 2007, it has devastated centuries-old boxwood gardens across the continent.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Box Tree Moth (Cydalima perspectalis). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/box-tree-moth
MLA:
"Box Tree Moth." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/box-tree-moth.