Eriocraniidae

0013 (ABH2.007) Eriocrania semipurpurella, (Stephens, 1835)

KR00056

Leaf mine on Birch
Leaf mine on Birch
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Leaf mine on Birch
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
 pre-2000
 2000-2009
 2010-2019
 2020-onwards
Leaf mine on Birch, larva visible
Leaf mine on Birch, larva visible
 Photo © Barry Dickerson


General Information

The moth is very similar to E. sangii and requires genital examination for conclusive identification.

 

The larvae create a blotch mine in the leaves of the foodplant.

Overwinters as Overwinters as a pupa.
Flies during the day

Wingspan: 10-16 mm.
Foodplant(s): birches (Betula spp.)
Flying: One generation, March-early April
UK Presence: Resident
National status: Common

Habitat

Birch woodland.

Regional Information

Recorded in 16 (5.9%) of the 270 2km squares of Huntingdonshire.

Last recorded in May 2022

Recorded date range (Adult): 31 March to 30 April

Recorded date range (Larva/Leafmine): 21 April to 21 May

Similar Species
Earith
Earith
 Photo © David Griffiths
Eriocrania unimaculella mine on Birch
Eriocrania unimaculella mine on Birch
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Eriocrania salopiella mine on Birch
Eriocrania salopiella mine on Birch
 Photo © Barry Dickerson
Holme Fen
Holme Fen
 Photo © Barry Dickerson


Larva/Leafmine:
Larva Type:
Smooth
Colours:
White, Brown, Yellow, Grey, Black