Gracillariidae

15.0131 Pale Maple Stilt Caloptilia honoratella (Rebel,1914))

Migrant

Similar species: Caloptilia hemidactylella lacks the darker brown scales bordering the blotch on the leading edge. A genitalia check should be carried out for worn or faded specimens or if the identification is uncertain.

Forewing: 4.5 to 5.5mm

Habitats: Deciduous woodland.

Habits: The moth comes to light. It was first recorded in Britain at Cheriton, Kent on 16th April 2019.

Foodplant: The early stages are unrecorded in Britain. On the European mainland the larva feeds on Sycamore and sometimes Montpellier Maple. It has a similar mine and leaf roll to Caloptilia hemidactylella and Caloptilia rufipenella. It spins a whitish cocoon under a leaf.