Beech Pigmy
Common NameBeech Pigmy
Scientific NameStigmella tityrella
FamilyNepticulidae
SubfamilyNepticulinae
Wingspan (mm)4
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorsdark brown, white, yellowish
HabitatBeech woodlands, forests
Geographic RangeEurope
Host PlantsFagus sylvatica (European Beech)
Flight PeriodMay to June, August to September
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThe larvae are leaf miners, creating a distinctive serpentine mine in the leaves of beech trees. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, often on the ground.
Identification TipsDistinguished by its extremely small size, the dark brown forewings with a clear white band across the middle, and its specific association with beech trees as a host plant.
Description
A minute moth with dark brown forewings featuring a prominent white transverse fascia and a pale yellowish head tuft. The hindwings are grey with a long fringe.
