Depressariidae

32.003 Tufted Blackthorn Moth Luquetia lobella ([Denis & Schiffermüller], 1775)

Local

Similar species:

Forewing: 7.5 to 9.5mm

Habitats: Mature hedgerows, woodland margins and downland scrub.

Habits: The moth is rarely disturbed from Blackthorn hedgerows. It comes to light

Foodplant: The larva lives in a silk web under a succession of leaves of Blackthorn or sometimes rose. The spinnings cause the leaves to curl down. The larva is usually found just less than a metre above the ground and often on Blackthorn suckers. It drops from the web if disturbed. Pupation takes place in a tough brown cocoon spun in the leaf litter with yellow silk.