Colt's-foot Bell

<em>Epiblema sticticana</em>, the colts-foot bell moth, is a tortricid moth in the family Tortricidae with known occurrences in Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and Sweden. This species is assessed as Least Concern by the IUCN and occupies terrestrial and freshwater-associated habitats across its northern European range. The common name refers to the larval association with coltsfoot (<em>Tussilago farfara</em>) and possibly related Asteraceae, on which the caterpillars are believed to feed, a dietary habit typical of tortricid moths that specialise on particular host plant genera. Bell moths are named for the bell-shaped posture adults adopt when at rest on vegetation. <em>Epiblema sticticana</em> likely completes one or two generations per year within its temperate European range, with adults active during spring and summer months. The forewings typically display the intricate patterning of browns, greys, and strigulae characteristic of the genus, providing effective camouflage against bark and dead plant material. As a herbivorous insect, this species contributes to nutrient cycling through plant tissue consumption and serves as prey for insectivorous birds and bats. Biological traits of this species remain poorly documented in the scientific literature.